the infantry battalion - combat index, llc · field manual headquarters no. 3-21.20 (7-20)...
TRANSCRIPT
FM 3-2120(FM 7-20)
THE INFANTRY BATTALION
DECEMBER 2006 DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION Approved for public release distribution unlimited
HEADQUARTERS DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
This page intentionally left blank
Field Manual Headquarters
No 3-2120 (7-20) Department of the Army
Washington DC 13 December 2006
The Infantry BattalionContents
Page
PREFACE xvii
SUMMARY OF CHANGE xviii
Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION1-1
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS 1-1MISSION1-1CAPABILITIES1-1LIMITATIONS1-2
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION1-2COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-2FUNCTION1-2BATTLEFIELD ORGANIZATION1-11
Section III WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 1-12FIRE SUPPORT 1-12MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 1-13PROTECTION 1-14COMMAND AND CONTROL1-14INTELLIGENCE 1-15SUSTAINMENT 1-16
Section IV CONTEMPORARY OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT1-16ASYMMETRY 1-16THREATS 1-16SCOPE1-17VARIABLES 1-17
Chapter 2 BATTLE COMMAND 2-1
Section I ART OF COMMAND2-1ROLE OF COMMANDER 2-1LOCATION OF COMMANDER 2-2SCIENCE OF CONTROL 2-3
Section II COMMAND AND CONTROL 2-5SYSTEM 2-5
Distribution Restriction Approved for public release distribution is unlimited
This publication supersedes FM 7-20 6 April 1992
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 i
Contents
INFRASTRUCTURE 2-5EXERCISE 2-5DISTRIBUTION AT BATTALION LEVEL 2-6COMMAND AND SUPPORT RELATIONSHIPS 2-7
Section III PLANNING PROCEDURES 2-9PARALLEL COLLABORATIVE AND DISTRIBUTED PLANNING 2-9MILITARY DECISION-MAKING PROCESS 2-10ROLES OF COMMANDER AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER 2-10ROLE OF RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE 2-11
Section IV MILITARY DECISION-MAKING PROCESS 2-11TIME CONSTRAINTS 2-13TRAINING ON THE MDMP 2-13ABBREVIATION 2-13
Section V PREPARATION FOR OPERATIONS 2-14RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE 2-14SECURITY 2-15FORCE PROTECTION 2-15PLAN REVISION AND REFINEMENT 2-15COORDINATION AND LIAISON 2-15REHEARSALS 2-16
Section VI EXECUTION 2-16COMMAND AND CONTROL 2-16ASSESSMENT 2-16DECISIONS 2-17
Section VII ADJUSTMENT DECISIONS 2-19METHODS 2-19DIRECTION OF ACTION 2-19
Section VIII BATTLE RHYTHM AND TARGETING 2-20INTRODUCTION 2-20CYCLE 2-20APPLICATION 2-20SYNCHRONIZATION 2-21DECIDE-DETECT-DELIVER-ASSESS METHOD 2-21GUIDANCE 2-21
Chapter 3 INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE OPERATIONS 3-1
Section I OVERVIEW 3-1DEFINITIONS 3-1FUNDAMENTALS 3-2RESPONSIBILITIES 3-4
Section II INTEGRATION 3-8RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON AND RampS ASSETS 3-8CAPABILITIES 3-10COMMUNICATIONS 3-11EXECUTION 3-11
Section III SUPPORT 3-12FIRE 3-12
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 ii
Contents
LOGISTICS3-12MEDICAL 3-13COMMUNICATIONS 3-13
Chapter 4 OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 4-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 4-1SURPRISE4-1CONCENTRATION4-2TEMPO 4-2AUDACITY4-2CONTACT CONTINUUM4-2
Section II ORGANIZATION4-3DECISIVE OPERATIONS4-3SHAPING OPERATIONS 4-4SUSTAINING OPERATIONS 4-4MAIN EFFORT4-5RESERVE4-5FOLLOW AND SUPPORT4-6FOLLOW AND ASSUME4-6
Section III SEQUENCE 4-7PREPARATION 4-7EXECUTION 4-7
Section IV FORMS OF MANEUVER 4-9ENVELOPMENT4-9PENETRATION 4-10TURNING MOVEMENT4-11INFILTRATION 4-12FRONTAL ATTACK 4-14MOVEMENT TECHNIQUES AND FORMATIONS4-15
Section V FORMS OF TACTICAL OFFENSE4-20HASTY OPERATIONS 4-20DELIBERATE OPERATIONS4-20MOVEMENT TO CONTACT4-21ATTACKS4-39
Section VI PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 4-59FORCE ORGANIZATION4-60INTELLIGENCE RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE4-60SCHEME OF MANEUVER 4-61FIRE SUPPORT 4-62
Section VII TRANSITIONAL OPERATIONS 4-63CONSOLIDATION 4-63REORGANIZATION4-64CONTINUATION OF OPERATIONS4-64DEFENSE 4-64
Chapter 5 DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 5-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 5-1PURPOSE5-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 iii
Contents
ORGANIZATION 5-1CHARACTERISTICS 5-4PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-6PREPARATION 5-10
Section II TYPES 5-11AREA DEFENSE 5-11FORWARD DEFENSE 5-12DEFENSE IN DEPTH 5-13EXECUTION 5-14BATTLE HANDOVER 5-15MOBILE DEFENSE 5-18RETROGRADE OPERATIONS 5-18
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-35KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE 5-36COMMANDERrsquoS VISION 5-36HOW AND WHERE TO DEFEAT ENEMY 5-36FORCES AND ASSETS AVAILABLE 5-36EFFECTS 5-36
Section IV SEQUENCE 5-37OCCUPATION AND ESTABLISHMENT OF SECURITY 5-37POSITIONING OF FORCES 5-38SECURITY OPERATIONS 5-38SECURITY AREA ENGAGEMENT 5-38MAIN BATTLE AREA FIGHT 5-39FOLLOW-ON MISSIONS 5-40
Section V TECHNIQUES 5-40DEFEND AN AREA OF OPERATIONS 5-40DEFEND A BATTLE POSITION 5-43CONDUCT A REVERSE SLOPE DEFENSE 5-46DEFEND A STRONGPOINT 5-48CONDUCT A PERIMETER DEFENSE 5-54RESERVE 5-56QUICK REACTION FORCE 5-57COUNTERATTACK 5-57
Section VI MANEUVER AND PROTECTION INTEGRATION 5-57COUNTERMOBILITY 5-57SURVIVABILITY 5-62
Chapter 6 STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 6-1PURPOSE 6-1CHARACTERISTICS 6-3
Section II TYPES OF STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-6PEACE OPERATIONS 6-6OPERATIONS IN SUPPORT OF DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS 6-8FOREIGN INTERNAL DEFENSE 6-8HUMANITARIAN AND CIVIC ASSISTANCE 6-9
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 iv
Contents
FOREIGN HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE 6-10SUPPORT TO INSURGENCIES 6-10SECURITY ASSISTANCE6-10SUPPORT TO COUNTERDRUG OPERATIONS 6-10COMBATING OF TERRORISM 6-11NONCOMBATANT EVACUATION OPERATIONS 6-12ARMS CONTROL 6-12SHOW OF FORCE 6-13
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS6-13DECENTRALIZED OPERATIONS 6-13METT-TC CONSIDERATIONS6-14RULES OF ENGAGEMENT 6-15RULES OF INTERACTION6-15PROTECTION AND FIELD DISCIPLINE 6-15SEQUENCE OF STABILITY OPERATIONS ACTIONS6-17TASK ORGANIZATION 6-18MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS 6-19OPERATIONS WITH OUTSIDE AGENCIES 6-19
Section IV WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 6-19FIRE SUPPORT 6-19MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 6-20PROTECTION 6-21COMMAND AND CONTROL6-22INTELLIGENCE 6-23SUSTAINMENT 6-25OTHER CONSIDERATIONS6-26
Section V TECHNIQUES 6-27PRESENCE PATROLS 6-27OBSERVATION POSTS6-27SECURITY OF OFFICIALS 6-28STATIC SECURITY POSTS6-28SEARCHES 6-30ROADBLOCKS AND OTHER CHECKPOINTS 6-35
Chapter 7 CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 7-1PURPOSE7-2ARMY ROLE7-2
Section II FORMS OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-3RELIEF OPERATIONS7-3SUPPORT TO CBRNE-CM 7-3SUPPORT TO CIVIL LAW ENFORCEMENT7-4
Section III PLANNING AND EXECUTING OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-5PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 7-5PLANNING PROCESS7-6WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 7-7INFORMATION OPERATIONS 7-10
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 v
Contents
Section IV PATTERN OF OPERATIONS 7-10RESPONSE 7-10RECOVERY 7-11RESTORATION 7-11
Section V SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS 7-11MOVEMENT INTO AREA OF OPERATIONS 7-12ESTABLISHMENT OF BASE OF OPERATIONS 7-12MAINTENANCE OF SUPPORT 7-13TERMINATION OF OPERATIONS 7-13
Section VI TRAINING CONSIDERATIONS 7-13TRAINING PLAN 7-13BASIC SOLDIER SKILLS 7-14SPECIFIC TRAINING 7-15ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 7-15
Chapter 8 TACTICAL ENABLING OPERATIONS 8-1
Section I SECURITY OPERATIONS 8-1PURPOSE 8-1TYPES 8-1SCREEN 8-2GUARD 8-4COVER 8-7AREA SECURITY 8-7LOCAL SECURITY 8-8HIGH-VALUE ASSETS SECURITY 8-8
Section II RELIEF OPERATIONS 8-9PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-9COMMAND AND CONTROL 8-10
Section III BATTLE HANDOVER AND PASSAGE OF LINES 8-10BATTLE HANDOVER 8-10PASSAGE OF LINES 8-11FORWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-14REARWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-15REHEARSAL 8-15
Section IV LINKUP OPERATIONS 8-15PREPARATION 8-15CONTROL 8-16FORMS OF LINKUP 8-16
Section V RIVER-CROSSING OPERATIONS 8-20PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-20ASSAULT OF CROSSING SITE 8-21
Section VI COMBINED-ARMS BREACHING OPERATIONS 8-23TENETS 8-23DELIBERATE OPERATIONS 8-27HASTY OPERATIONS 8-29
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 vi
Contents
Chapter 9 COMMAND POSTS 9-1
Section I FACILITIES9-1SURVIVABILITY 9-1DISPLACEMENT 9-2
Section II OPERATIONS9-3COMMUNICATIONS 9-3MAPS 9-3BATTLE CAPTAIN9-4
Section III COMMUNICATIONS9-5RESPONSIBILITIES 9-5MEANS OF COMMUNICATION9-5RADIO TRANSMISSIONS9-5INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIA9-5SYSTEMS9-6
Chapter 10 WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS10-1
Section I FIRE SUPPORT10-1INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEMS 10-1FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND COORDINATION10-3FIRE SUPPORT AND MDMP10-6MORTARS IN BATTALION CLOSE FIGHT 10-8ECHELONMENT OF FIRES10-8EXECUTION CONSIDERATIONS 10-9AIR SUPPORT10-14
Section II MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 10-21MISSION10-21ORGANIZATION10-21PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-22ESSENTIAL MOBILITY AND SURVIVABILITY TASKS10-23SCATTERABLE MINES10-24
Section III PROTECTION10-30MISSION10-30ORGANIZATION10-30PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-31ROLE OF AIR DEFENSE OFFICER 10-32AIR DEFENSE TYPES 10-33AIR DEFENSE WARNINGS AND WEAPONS CONTROL STATUS10-34CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR OPERATIONS10-34MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT10-35
Section IV COMMAND AND CONTROL (SIGNAL)10-37BATTALION SIGNAL OFFICER10-37BATTALION COMMUNICATIONS SECTION 10-37
Section V INTELLIGENCE10-38INFANTRY BATTALION INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND
RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS 10-38IBCT INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS10-40
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 vii
Contents
Section VI SUSTAINMENT 10-41ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION 10-41BATTALION TRAINS OPERATIONS 10-49SUPPLY AND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS 10-51MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 10-56HEALTH SERVICE SUPPORT 10-58SOLDIERrsquoS LOAD 10-62OTHER OPERATIONS 10-63
Chapter 11 URBAN OPERATIONS 11-1
Section I INTRODUCTION 11-1FUNDAMENTALS 11-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 11-4ROLE OF INFANTRY BATTALION 11-5TACTICAL CHALLENGES 11-5
Section II METT-TC 11-6MISSION 11-7ENEMY 11-7URBAN MAPPING PROCEDURES 11-9TERRAIN AND WEATHER 11-14TROOPS AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE 11-17TIME 11-18CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS 11-18
Section III COMMAND AND CONTROL 11-19ENEMY FOCUS 11-19COMMANDERrsquoS CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 11-19TASK ORGANIZATION 11-20REHEARSALS 11-21FIRE SUPPORT 11-21FIELD ARTILLERY 11-22MORTARS 11-23COMMUNICATIONS 11-25WEAPONS EFFECTS 11-26
Section IV OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-27OFFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-27TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-28TRANSITION 11-32MOVEMENT TO CONTACT 11-32INFILTRATION 11-33ATTACK OF A VILLAGE 11-34NODAL ATTACK 11-35
Section V DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-37DEFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-37DEFENSIVE PLANNING 11-38INTEGRATION OF URBAN AREA 11-39NODAL DEFENSE 11-39DELAY 11-42
viii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
This page intentionally left blank
Field Manual Headquarters
No 3-2120 (7-20) Department of the Army
Washington DC 13 December 2006
The Infantry BattalionContents
Page
PREFACE xvii
SUMMARY OF CHANGE xviii
Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION1-1
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS 1-1MISSION1-1CAPABILITIES1-1LIMITATIONS1-2
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION1-2COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-2FUNCTION1-2BATTLEFIELD ORGANIZATION1-11
Section III WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 1-12FIRE SUPPORT 1-12MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 1-13PROTECTION 1-14COMMAND AND CONTROL1-14INTELLIGENCE 1-15SUSTAINMENT 1-16
Section IV CONTEMPORARY OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT1-16ASYMMETRY 1-16THREATS 1-16SCOPE1-17VARIABLES 1-17
Chapter 2 BATTLE COMMAND 2-1
Section I ART OF COMMAND2-1ROLE OF COMMANDER 2-1LOCATION OF COMMANDER 2-2SCIENCE OF CONTROL 2-3
Section II COMMAND AND CONTROL 2-5SYSTEM 2-5
Distribution Restriction Approved for public release distribution is unlimited
This publication supersedes FM 7-20 6 April 1992
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 i
Contents
INFRASTRUCTURE 2-5EXERCISE 2-5DISTRIBUTION AT BATTALION LEVEL 2-6COMMAND AND SUPPORT RELATIONSHIPS 2-7
Section III PLANNING PROCEDURES 2-9PARALLEL COLLABORATIVE AND DISTRIBUTED PLANNING 2-9MILITARY DECISION-MAKING PROCESS 2-10ROLES OF COMMANDER AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER 2-10ROLE OF RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE 2-11
Section IV MILITARY DECISION-MAKING PROCESS 2-11TIME CONSTRAINTS 2-13TRAINING ON THE MDMP 2-13ABBREVIATION 2-13
Section V PREPARATION FOR OPERATIONS 2-14RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE 2-14SECURITY 2-15FORCE PROTECTION 2-15PLAN REVISION AND REFINEMENT 2-15COORDINATION AND LIAISON 2-15REHEARSALS 2-16
Section VI EXECUTION 2-16COMMAND AND CONTROL 2-16ASSESSMENT 2-16DECISIONS 2-17
Section VII ADJUSTMENT DECISIONS 2-19METHODS 2-19DIRECTION OF ACTION 2-19
Section VIII BATTLE RHYTHM AND TARGETING 2-20INTRODUCTION 2-20CYCLE 2-20APPLICATION 2-20SYNCHRONIZATION 2-21DECIDE-DETECT-DELIVER-ASSESS METHOD 2-21GUIDANCE 2-21
Chapter 3 INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE OPERATIONS 3-1
Section I OVERVIEW 3-1DEFINITIONS 3-1FUNDAMENTALS 3-2RESPONSIBILITIES 3-4
Section II INTEGRATION 3-8RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON AND RampS ASSETS 3-8CAPABILITIES 3-10COMMUNICATIONS 3-11EXECUTION 3-11
Section III SUPPORT 3-12FIRE 3-12
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 ii
Contents
LOGISTICS3-12MEDICAL 3-13COMMUNICATIONS 3-13
Chapter 4 OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 4-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 4-1SURPRISE4-1CONCENTRATION4-2TEMPO 4-2AUDACITY4-2CONTACT CONTINUUM4-2
Section II ORGANIZATION4-3DECISIVE OPERATIONS4-3SHAPING OPERATIONS 4-4SUSTAINING OPERATIONS 4-4MAIN EFFORT4-5RESERVE4-5FOLLOW AND SUPPORT4-6FOLLOW AND ASSUME4-6
Section III SEQUENCE 4-7PREPARATION 4-7EXECUTION 4-7
Section IV FORMS OF MANEUVER 4-9ENVELOPMENT4-9PENETRATION 4-10TURNING MOVEMENT4-11INFILTRATION 4-12FRONTAL ATTACK 4-14MOVEMENT TECHNIQUES AND FORMATIONS4-15
Section V FORMS OF TACTICAL OFFENSE4-20HASTY OPERATIONS 4-20DELIBERATE OPERATIONS4-20MOVEMENT TO CONTACT4-21ATTACKS4-39
Section VI PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 4-59FORCE ORGANIZATION4-60INTELLIGENCE RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE4-60SCHEME OF MANEUVER 4-61FIRE SUPPORT 4-62
Section VII TRANSITIONAL OPERATIONS 4-63CONSOLIDATION 4-63REORGANIZATION4-64CONTINUATION OF OPERATIONS4-64DEFENSE 4-64
Chapter 5 DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 5-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 5-1PURPOSE5-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 iii
Contents
ORGANIZATION 5-1CHARACTERISTICS 5-4PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-6PREPARATION 5-10
Section II TYPES 5-11AREA DEFENSE 5-11FORWARD DEFENSE 5-12DEFENSE IN DEPTH 5-13EXECUTION 5-14BATTLE HANDOVER 5-15MOBILE DEFENSE 5-18RETROGRADE OPERATIONS 5-18
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-35KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE 5-36COMMANDERrsquoS VISION 5-36HOW AND WHERE TO DEFEAT ENEMY 5-36FORCES AND ASSETS AVAILABLE 5-36EFFECTS 5-36
Section IV SEQUENCE 5-37OCCUPATION AND ESTABLISHMENT OF SECURITY 5-37POSITIONING OF FORCES 5-38SECURITY OPERATIONS 5-38SECURITY AREA ENGAGEMENT 5-38MAIN BATTLE AREA FIGHT 5-39FOLLOW-ON MISSIONS 5-40
Section V TECHNIQUES 5-40DEFEND AN AREA OF OPERATIONS 5-40DEFEND A BATTLE POSITION 5-43CONDUCT A REVERSE SLOPE DEFENSE 5-46DEFEND A STRONGPOINT 5-48CONDUCT A PERIMETER DEFENSE 5-54RESERVE 5-56QUICK REACTION FORCE 5-57COUNTERATTACK 5-57
Section VI MANEUVER AND PROTECTION INTEGRATION 5-57COUNTERMOBILITY 5-57SURVIVABILITY 5-62
Chapter 6 STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 6-1PURPOSE 6-1CHARACTERISTICS 6-3
Section II TYPES OF STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-6PEACE OPERATIONS 6-6OPERATIONS IN SUPPORT OF DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS 6-8FOREIGN INTERNAL DEFENSE 6-8HUMANITARIAN AND CIVIC ASSISTANCE 6-9
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 iv
Contents
FOREIGN HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE 6-10SUPPORT TO INSURGENCIES 6-10SECURITY ASSISTANCE6-10SUPPORT TO COUNTERDRUG OPERATIONS 6-10COMBATING OF TERRORISM 6-11NONCOMBATANT EVACUATION OPERATIONS 6-12ARMS CONTROL 6-12SHOW OF FORCE 6-13
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS6-13DECENTRALIZED OPERATIONS 6-13METT-TC CONSIDERATIONS6-14RULES OF ENGAGEMENT 6-15RULES OF INTERACTION6-15PROTECTION AND FIELD DISCIPLINE 6-15SEQUENCE OF STABILITY OPERATIONS ACTIONS6-17TASK ORGANIZATION 6-18MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS 6-19OPERATIONS WITH OUTSIDE AGENCIES 6-19
Section IV WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 6-19FIRE SUPPORT 6-19MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 6-20PROTECTION 6-21COMMAND AND CONTROL6-22INTELLIGENCE 6-23SUSTAINMENT 6-25OTHER CONSIDERATIONS6-26
Section V TECHNIQUES 6-27PRESENCE PATROLS 6-27OBSERVATION POSTS6-27SECURITY OF OFFICIALS 6-28STATIC SECURITY POSTS6-28SEARCHES 6-30ROADBLOCKS AND OTHER CHECKPOINTS 6-35
Chapter 7 CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 7-1PURPOSE7-2ARMY ROLE7-2
Section II FORMS OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-3RELIEF OPERATIONS7-3SUPPORT TO CBRNE-CM 7-3SUPPORT TO CIVIL LAW ENFORCEMENT7-4
Section III PLANNING AND EXECUTING OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-5PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 7-5PLANNING PROCESS7-6WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 7-7INFORMATION OPERATIONS 7-10
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 v
Contents
Section IV PATTERN OF OPERATIONS 7-10RESPONSE 7-10RECOVERY 7-11RESTORATION 7-11
Section V SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS 7-11MOVEMENT INTO AREA OF OPERATIONS 7-12ESTABLISHMENT OF BASE OF OPERATIONS 7-12MAINTENANCE OF SUPPORT 7-13TERMINATION OF OPERATIONS 7-13
Section VI TRAINING CONSIDERATIONS 7-13TRAINING PLAN 7-13BASIC SOLDIER SKILLS 7-14SPECIFIC TRAINING 7-15ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 7-15
Chapter 8 TACTICAL ENABLING OPERATIONS 8-1
Section I SECURITY OPERATIONS 8-1PURPOSE 8-1TYPES 8-1SCREEN 8-2GUARD 8-4COVER 8-7AREA SECURITY 8-7LOCAL SECURITY 8-8HIGH-VALUE ASSETS SECURITY 8-8
Section II RELIEF OPERATIONS 8-9PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-9COMMAND AND CONTROL 8-10
Section III BATTLE HANDOVER AND PASSAGE OF LINES 8-10BATTLE HANDOVER 8-10PASSAGE OF LINES 8-11FORWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-14REARWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-15REHEARSAL 8-15
Section IV LINKUP OPERATIONS 8-15PREPARATION 8-15CONTROL 8-16FORMS OF LINKUP 8-16
Section V RIVER-CROSSING OPERATIONS 8-20PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-20ASSAULT OF CROSSING SITE 8-21
Section VI COMBINED-ARMS BREACHING OPERATIONS 8-23TENETS 8-23DELIBERATE OPERATIONS 8-27HASTY OPERATIONS 8-29
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 vi
Contents
Chapter 9 COMMAND POSTS 9-1
Section I FACILITIES9-1SURVIVABILITY 9-1DISPLACEMENT 9-2
Section II OPERATIONS9-3COMMUNICATIONS 9-3MAPS 9-3BATTLE CAPTAIN9-4
Section III COMMUNICATIONS9-5RESPONSIBILITIES 9-5MEANS OF COMMUNICATION9-5RADIO TRANSMISSIONS9-5INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIA9-5SYSTEMS9-6
Chapter 10 WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS10-1
Section I FIRE SUPPORT10-1INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEMS 10-1FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND COORDINATION10-3FIRE SUPPORT AND MDMP10-6MORTARS IN BATTALION CLOSE FIGHT 10-8ECHELONMENT OF FIRES10-8EXECUTION CONSIDERATIONS 10-9AIR SUPPORT10-14
Section II MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 10-21MISSION10-21ORGANIZATION10-21PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-22ESSENTIAL MOBILITY AND SURVIVABILITY TASKS10-23SCATTERABLE MINES10-24
Section III PROTECTION10-30MISSION10-30ORGANIZATION10-30PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-31ROLE OF AIR DEFENSE OFFICER 10-32AIR DEFENSE TYPES 10-33AIR DEFENSE WARNINGS AND WEAPONS CONTROL STATUS10-34CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR OPERATIONS10-34MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT10-35
Section IV COMMAND AND CONTROL (SIGNAL)10-37BATTALION SIGNAL OFFICER10-37BATTALION COMMUNICATIONS SECTION 10-37
Section V INTELLIGENCE10-38INFANTRY BATTALION INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND
RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS 10-38IBCT INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS10-40
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 vii
Contents
Section VI SUSTAINMENT 10-41ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION 10-41BATTALION TRAINS OPERATIONS 10-49SUPPLY AND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS 10-51MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 10-56HEALTH SERVICE SUPPORT 10-58SOLDIERrsquoS LOAD 10-62OTHER OPERATIONS 10-63
Chapter 11 URBAN OPERATIONS 11-1
Section I INTRODUCTION 11-1FUNDAMENTALS 11-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 11-4ROLE OF INFANTRY BATTALION 11-5TACTICAL CHALLENGES 11-5
Section II METT-TC 11-6MISSION 11-7ENEMY 11-7URBAN MAPPING PROCEDURES 11-9TERRAIN AND WEATHER 11-14TROOPS AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE 11-17TIME 11-18CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS 11-18
Section III COMMAND AND CONTROL 11-19ENEMY FOCUS 11-19COMMANDERrsquoS CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 11-19TASK ORGANIZATION 11-20REHEARSALS 11-21FIRE SUPPORT 11-21FIELD ARTILLERY 11-22MORTARS 11-23COMMUNICATIONS 11-25WEAPONS EFFECTS 11-26
Section IV OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-27OFFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-27TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-28TRANSITION 11-32MOVEMENT TO CONTACT 11-32INFILTRATION 11-33ATTACK OF A VILLAGE 11-34NODAL ATTACK 11-35
Section V DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-37DEFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-37DEFENSIVE PLANNING 11-38INTEGRATION OF URBAN AREA 11-39NODAL DEFENSE 11-39DELAY 11-42
viii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Field Manual Headquarters
No 3-2120 (7-20) Department of the Army
Washington DC 13 December 2006
The Infantry BattalionContents
Page
PREFACE xvii
SUMMARY OF CHANGE xviii
Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION1-1
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS 1-1MISSION1-1CAPABILITIES1-1LIMITATIONS1-2
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION1-2COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-2FUNCTION1-2BATTLEFIELD ORGANIZATION1-11
Section III WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 1-12FIRE SUPPORT 1-12MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 1-13PROTECTION 1-14COMMAND AND CONTROL1-14INTELLIGENCE 1-15SUSTAINMENT 1-16
Section IV CONTEMPORARY OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT1-16ASYMMETRY 1-16THREATS 1-16SCOPE1-17VARIABLES 1-17
Chapter 2 BATTLE COMMAND 2-1
Section I ART OF COMMAND2-1ROLE OF COMMANDER 2-1LOCATION OF COMMANDER 2-2SCIENCE OF CONTROL 2-3
Section II COMMAND AND CONTROL 2-5SYSTEM 2-5
Distribution Restriction Approved for public release distribution is unlimited
This publication supersedes FM 7-20 6 April 1992
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 i
Contents
INFRASTRUCTURE 2-5EXERCISE 2-5DISTRIBUTION AT BATTALION LEVEL 2-6COMMAND AND SUPPORT RELATIONSHIPS 2-7
Section III PLANNING PROCEDURES 2-9PARALLEL COLLABORATIVE AND DISTRIBUTED PLANNING 2-9MILITARY DECISION-MAKING PROCESS 2-10ROLES OF COMMANDER AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER 2-10ROLE OF RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE 2-11
Section IV MILITARY DECISION-MAKING PROCESS 2-11TIME CONSTRAINTS 2-13TRAINING ON THE MDMP 2-13ABBREVIATION 2-13
Section V PREPARATION FOR OPERATIONS 2-14RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE 2-14SECURITY 2-15FORCE PROTECTION 2-15PLAN REVISION AND REFINEMENT 2-15COORDINATION AND LIAISON 2-15REHEARSALS 2-16
Section VI EXECUTION 2-16COMMAND AND CONTROL 2-16ASSESSMENT 2-16DECISIONS 2-17
Section VII ADJUSTMENT DECISIONS 2-19METHODS 2-19DIRECTION OF ACTION 2-19
Section VIII BATTLE RHYTHM AND TARGETING 2-20INTRODUCTION 2-20CYCLE 2-20APPLICATION 2-20SYNCHRONIZATION 2-21DECIDE-DETECT-DELIVER-ASSESS METHOD 2-21GUIDANCE 2-21
Chapter 3 INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE OPERATIONS 3-1
Section I OVERVIEW 3-1DEFINITIONS 3-1FUNDAMENTALS 3-2RESPONSIBILITIES 3-4
Section II INTEGRATION 3-8RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON AND RampS ASSETS 3-8CAPABILITIES 3-10COMMUNICATIONS 3-11EXECUTION 3-11
Section III SUPPORT 3-12FIRE 3-12
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 ii
Contents
LOGISTICS3-12MEDICAL 3-13COMMUNICATIONS 3-13
Chapter 4 OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 4-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 4-1SURPRISE4-1CONCENTRATION4-2TEMPO 4-2AUDACITY4-2CONTACT CONTINUUM4-2
Section II ORGANIZATION4-3DECISIVE OPERATIONS4-3SHAPING OPERATIONS 4-4SUSTAINING OPERATIONS 4-4MAIN EFFORT4-5RESERVE4-5FOLLOW AND SUPPORT4-6FOLLOW AND ASSUME4-6
Section III SEQUENCE 4-7PREPARATION 4-7EXECUTION 4-7
Section IV FORMS OF MANEUVER 4-9ENVELOPMENT4-9PENETRATION 4-10TURNING MOVEMENT4-11INFILTRATION 4-12FRONTAL ATTACK 4-14MOVEMENT TECHNIQUES AND FORMATIONS4-15
Section V FORMS OF TACTICAL OFFENSE4-20HASTY OPERATIONS 4-20DELIBERATE OPERATIONS4-20MOVEMENT TO CONTACT4-21ATTACKS4-39
Section VI PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 4-59FORCE ORGANIZATION4-60INTELLIGENCE RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE4-60SCHEME OF MANEUVER 4-61FIRE SUPPORT 4-62
Section VII TRANSITIONAL OPERATIONS 4-63CONSOLIDATION 4-63REORGANIZATION4-64CONTINUATION OF OPERATIONS4-64DEFENSE 4-64
Chapter 5 DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 5-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 5-1PURPOSE5-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 iii
Contents
ORGANIZATION 5-1CHARACTERISTICS 5-4PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-6PREPARATION 5-10
Section II TYPES 5-11AREA DEFENSE 5-11FORWARD DEFENSE 5-12DEFENSE IN DEPTH 5-13EXECUTION 5-14BATTLE HANDOVER 5-15MOBILE DEFENSE 5-18RETROGRADE OPERATIONS 5-18
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-35KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE 5-36COMMANDERrsquoS VISION 5-36HOW AND WHERE TO DEFEAT ENEMY 5-36FORCES AND ASSETS AVAILABLE 5-36EFFECTS 5-36
Section IV SEQUENCE 5-37OCCUPATION AND ESTABLISHMENT OF SECURITY 5-37POSITIONING OF FORCES 5-38SECURITY OPERATIONS 5-38SECURITY AREA ENGAGEMENT 5-38MAIN BATTLE AREA FIGHT 5-39FOLLOW-ON MISSIONS 5-40
Section V TECHNIQUES 5-40DEFEND AN AREA OF OPERATIONS 5-40DEFEND A BATTLE POSITION 5-43CONDUCT A REVERSE SLOPE DEFENSE 5-46DEFEND A STRONGPOINT 5-48CONDUCT A PERIMETER DEFENSE 5-54RESERVE 5-56QUICK REACTION FORCE 5-57COUNTERATTACK 5-57
Section VI MANEUVER AND PROTECTION INTEGRATION 5-57COUNTERMOBILITY 5-57SURVIVABILITY 5-62
Chapter 6 STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 6-1PURPOSE 6-1CHARACTERISTICS 6-3
Section II TYPES OF STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-6PEACE OPERATIONS 6-6OPERATIONS IN SUPPORT OF DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS 6-8FOREIGN INTERNAL DEFENSE 6-8HUMANITARIAN AND CIVIC ASSISTANCE 6-9
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 iv
Contents
FOREIGN HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE 6-10SUPPORT TO INSURGENCIES 6-10SECURITY ASSISTANCE6-10SUPPORT TO COUNTERDRUG OPERATIONS 6-10COMBATING OF TERRORISM 6-11NONCOMBATANT EVACUATION OPERATIONS 6-12ARMS CONTROL 6-12SHOW OF FORCE 6-13
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS6-13DECENTRALIZED OPERATIONS 6-13METT-TC CONSIDERATIONS6-14RULES OF ENGAGEMENT 6-15RULES OF INTERACTION6-15PROTECTION AND FIELD DISCIPLINE 6-15SEQUENCE OF STABILITY OPERATIONS ACTIONS6-17TASK ORGANIZATION 6-18MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS 6-19OPERATIONS WITH OUTSIDE AGENCIES 6-19
Section IV WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 6-19FIRE SUPPORT 6-19MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 6-20PROTECTION 6-21COMMAND AND CONTROL6-22INTELLIGENCE 6-23SUSTAINMENT 6-25OTHER CONSIDERATIONS6-26
Section V TECHNIQUES 6-27PRESENCE PATROLS 6-27OBSERVATION POSTS6-27SECURITY OF OFFICIALS 6-28STATIC SECURITY POSTS6-28SEARCHES 6-30ROADBLOCKS AND OTHER CHECKPOINTS 6-35
Chapter 7 CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 7-1PURPOSE7-2ARMY ROLE7-2
Section II FORMS OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-3RELIEF OPERATIONS7-3SUPPORT TO CBRNE-CM 7-3SUPPORT TO CIVIL LAW ENFORCEMENT7-4
Section III PLANNING AND EXECUTING OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-5PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 7-5PLANNING PROCESS7-6WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 7-7INFORMATION OPERATIONS 7-10
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 v
Contents
Section IV PATTERN OF OPERATIONS 7-10RESPONSE 7-10RECOVERY 7-11RESTORATION 7-11
Section V SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS 7-11MOVEMENT INTO AREA OF OPERATIONS 7-12ESTABLISHMENT OF BASE OF OPERATIONS 7-12MAINTENANCE OF SUPPORT 7-13TERMINATION OF OPERATIONS 7-13
Section VI TRAINING CONSIDERATIONS 7-13TRAINING PLAN 7-13BASIC SOLDIER SKILLS 7-14SPECIFIC TRAINING 7-15ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 7-15
Chapter 8 TACTICAL ENABLING OPERATIONS 8-1
Section I SECURITY OPERATIONS 8-1PURPOSE 8-1TYPES 8-1SCREEN 8-2GUARD 8-4COVER 8-7AREA SECURITY 8-7LOCAL SECURITY 8-8HIGH-VALUE ASSETS SECURITY 8-8
Section II RELIEF OPERATIONS 8-9PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-9COMMAND AND CONTROL 8-10
Section III BATTLE HANDOVER AND PASSAGE OF LINES 8-10BATTLE HANDOVER 8-10PASSAGE OF LINES 8-11FORWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-14REARWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-15REHEARSAL 8-15
Section IV LINKUP OPERATIONS 8-15PREPARATION 8-15CONTROL 8-16FORMS OF LINKUP 8-16
Section V RIVER-CROSSING OPERATIONS 8-20PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-20ASSAULT OF CROSSING SITE 8-21
Section VI COMBINED-ARMS BREACHING OPERATIONS 8-23TENETS 8-23DELIBERATE OPERATIONS 8-27HASTY OPERATIONS 8-29
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 vi
Contents
Chapter 9 COMMAND POSTS 9-1
Section I FACILITIES9-1SURVIVABILITY 9-1DISPLACEMENT 9-2
Section II OPERATIONS9-3COMMUNICATIONS 9-3MAPS 9-3BATTLE CAPTAIN9-4
Section III COMMUNICATIONS9-5RESPONSIBILITIES 9-5MEANS OF COMMUNICATION9-5RADIO TRANSMISSIONS9-5INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIA9-5SYSTEMS9-6
Chapter 10 WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS10-1
Section I FIRE SUPPORT10-1INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEMS 10-1FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND COORDINATION10-3FIRE SUPPORT AND MDMP10-6MORTARS IN BATTALION CLOSE FIGHT 10-8ECHELONMENT OF FIRES10-8EXECUTION CONSIDERATIONS 10-9AIR SUPPORT10-14
Section II MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 10-21MISSION10-21ORGANIZATION10-21PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-22ESSENTIAL MOBILITY AND SURVIVABILITY TASKS10-23SCATTERABLE MINES10-24
Section III PROTECTION10-30MISSION10-30ORGANIZATION10-30PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-31ROLE OF AIR DEFENSE OFFICER 10-32AIR DEFENSE TYPES 10-33AIR DEFENSE WARNINGS AND WEAPONS CONTROL STATUS10-34CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR OPERATIONS10-34MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT10-35
Section IV COMMAND AND CONTROL (SIGNAL)10-37BATTALION SIGNAL OFFICER10-37BATTALION COMMUNICATIONS SECTION 10-37
Section V INTELLIGENCE10-38INFANTRY BATTALION INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND
RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS 10-38IBCT INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS10-40
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 vii
Contents
Section VI SUSTAINMENT 10-41ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION 10-41BATTALION TRAINS OPERATIONS 10-49SUPPLY AND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS 10-51MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 10-56HEALTH SERVICE SUPPORT 10-58SOLDIERrsquoS LOAD 10-62OTHER OPERATIONS 10-63
Chapter 11 URBAN OPERATIONS 11-1
Section I INTRODUCTION 11-1FUNDAMENTALS 11-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 11-4ROLE OF INFANTRY BATTALION 11-5TACTICAL CHALLENGES 11-5
Section II METT-TC 11-6MISSION 11-7ENEMY 11-7URBAN MAPPING PROCEDURES 11-9TERRAIN AND WEATHER 11-14TROOPS AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE 11-17TIME 11-18CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS 11-18
Section III COMMAND AND CONTROL 11-19ENEMY FOCUS 11-19COMMANDERrsquoS CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 11-19TASK ORGANIZATION 11-20REHEARSALS 11-21FIRE SUPPORT 11-21FIELD ARTILLERY 11-22MORTARS 11-23COMMUNICATIONS 11-25WEAPONS EFFECTS 11-26
Section IV OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-27OFFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-27TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-28TRANSITION 11-32MOVEMENT TO CONTACT 11-32INFILTRATION 11-33ATTACK OF A VILLAGE 11-34NODAL ATTACK 11-35
Section V DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-37DEFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-37DEFENSIVE PLANNING 11-38INTEGRATION OF URBAN AREA 11-39NODAL DEFENSE 11-39DELAY 11-42
viii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
INFRASTRUCTURE 2-5EXERCISE 2-5DISTRIBUTION AT BATTALION LEVEL 2-6COMMAND AND SUPPORT RELATIONSHIPS 2-7
Section III PLANNING PROCEDURES 2-9PARALLEL COLLABORATIVE AND DISTRIBUTED PLANNING 2-9MILITARY DECISION-MAKING PROCESS 2-10ROLES OF COMMANDER AND EXECUTIVE OFFICER 2-10ROLE OF RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE 2-11
Section IV MILITARY DECISION-MAKING PROCESS 2-11TIME CONSTRAINTS 2-13TRAINING ON THE MDMP 2-13ABBREVIATION 2-13
Section V PREPARATION FOR OPERATIONS 2-14RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE 2-14SECURITY 2-15FORCE PROTECTION 2-15PLAN REVISION AND REFINEMENT 2-15COORDINATION AND LIAISON 2-15REHEARSALS 2-16
Section VI EXECUTION 2-16COMMAND AND CONTROL 2-16ASSESSMENT 2-16DECISIONS 2-17
Section VII ADJUSTMENT DECISIONS 2-19METHODS 2-19DIRECTION OF ACTION 2-19
Section VIII BATTLE RHYTHM AND TARGETING 2-20INTRODUCTION 2-20CYCLE 2-20APPLICATION 2-20SYNCHRONIZATION 2-21DECIDE-DETECT-DELIVER-ASSESS METHOD 2-21GUIDANCE 2-21
Chapter 3 INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE OPERATIONS 3-1
Section I OVERVIEW 3-1DEFINITIONS 3-1FUNDAMENTALS 3-2RESPONSIBILITIES 3-4
Section II INTEGRATION 3-8RECONNAISSANCE SQUADRON AND RampS ASSETS 3-8CAPABILITIES 3-10COMMUNICATIONS 3-11EXECUTION 3-11
Section III SUPPORT 3-12FIRE 3-12
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 ii
Contents
LOGISTICS3-12MEDICAL 3-13COMMUNICATIONS 3-13
Chapter 4 OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 4-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 4-1SURPRISE4-1CONCENTRATION4-2TEMPO 4-2AUDACITY4-2CONTACT CONTINUUM4-2
Section II ORGANIZATION4-3DECISIVE OPERATIONS4-3SHAPING OPERATIONS 4-4SUSTAINING OPERATIONS 4-4MAIN EFFORT4-5RESERVE4-5FOLLOW AND SUPPORT4-6FOLLOW AND ASSUME4-6
Section III SEQUENCE 4-7PREPARATION 4-7EXECUTION 4-7
Section IV FORMS OF MANEUVER 4-9ENVELOPMENT4-9PENETRATION 4-10TURNING MOVEMENT4-11INFILTRATION 4-12FRONTAL ATTACK 4-14MOVEMENT TECHNIQUES AND FORMATIONS4-15
Section V FORMS OF TACTICAL OFFENSE4-20HASTY OPERATIONS 4-20DELIBERATE OPERATIONS4-20MOVEMENT TO CONTACT4-21ATTACKS4-39
Section VI PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 4-59FORCE ORGANIZATION4-60INTELLIGENCE RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE4-60SCHEME OF MANEUVER 4-61FIRE SUPPORT 4-62
Section VII TRANSITIONAL OPERATIONS 4-63CONSOLIDATION 4-63REORGANIZATION4-64CONTINUATION OF OPERATIONS4-64DEFENSE 4-64
Chapter 5 DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 5-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 5-1PURPOSE5-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 iii
Contents
ORGANIZATION 5-1CHARACTERISTICS 5-4PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-6PREPARATION 5-10
Section II TYPES 5-11AREA DEFENSE 5-11FORWARD DEFENSE 5-12DEFENSE IN DEPTH 5-13EXECUTION 5-14BATTLE HANDOVER 5-15MOBILE DEFENSE 5-18RETROGRADE OPERATIONS 5-18
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-35KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE 5-36COMMANDERrsquoS VISION 5-36HOW AND WHERE TO DEFEAT ENEMY 5-36FORCES AND ASSETS AVAILABLE 5-36EFFECTS 5-36
Section IV SEQUENCE 5-37OCCUPATION AND ESTABLISHMENT OF SECURITY 5-37POSITIONING OF FORCES 5-38SECURITY OPERATIONS 5-38SECURITY AREA ENGAGEMENT 5-38MAIN BATTLE AREA FIGHT 5-39FOLLOW-ON MISSIONS 5-40
Section V TECHNIQUES 5-40DEFEND AN AREA OF OPERATIONS 5-40DEFEND A BATTLE POSITION 5-43CONDUCT A REVERSE SLOPE DEFENSE 5-46DEFEND A STRONGPOINT 5-48CONDUCT A PERIMETER DEFENSE 5-54RESERVE 5-56QUICK REACTION FORCE 5-57COUNTERATTACK 5-57
Section VI MANEUVER AND PROTECTION INTEGRATION 5-57COUNTERMOBILITY 5-57SURVIVABILITY 5-62
Chapter 6 STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 6-1PURPOSE 6-1CHARACTERISTICS 6-3
Section II TYPES OF STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-6PEACE OPERATIONS 6-6OPERATIONS IN SUPPORT OF DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS 6-8FOREIGN INTERNAL DEFENSE 6-8HUMANITARIAN AND CIVIC ASSISTANCE 6-9
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 iv
Contents
FOREIGN HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE 6-10SUPPORT TO INSURGENCIES 6-10SECURITY ASSISTANCE6-10SUPPORT TO COUNTERDRUG OPERATIONS 6-10COMBATING OF TERRORISM 6-11NONCOMBATANT EVACUATION OPERATIONS 6-12ARMS CONTROL 6-12SHOW OF FORCE 6-13
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS6-13DECENTRALIZED OPERATIONS 6-13METT-TC CONSIDERATIONS6-14RULES OF ENGAGEMENT 6-15RULES OF INTERACTION6-15PROTECTION AND FIELD DISCIPLINE 6-15SEQUENCE OF STABILITY OPERATIONS ACTIONS6-17TASK ORGANIZATION 6-18MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS 6-19OPERATIONS WITH OUTSIDE AGENCIES 6-19
Section IV WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 6-19FIRE SUPPORT 6-19MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 6-20PROTECTION 6-21COMMAND AND CONTROL6-22INTELLIGENCE 6-23SUSTAINMENT 6-25OTHER CONSIDERATIONS6-26
Section V TECHNIQUES 6-27PRESENCE PATROLS 6-27OBSERVATION POSTS6-27SECURITY OF OFFICIALS 6-28STATIC SECURITY POSTS6-28SEARCHES 6-30ROADBLOCKS AND OTHER CHECKPOINTS 6-35
Chapter 7 CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 7-1PURPOSE7-2ARMY ROLE7-2
Section II FORMS OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-3RELIEF OPERATIONS7-3SUPPORT TO CBRNE-CM 7-3SUPPORT TO CIVIL LAW ENFORCEMENT7-4
Section III PLANNING AND EXECUTING OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-5PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 7-5PLANNING PROCESS7-6WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 7-7INFORMATION OPERATIONS 7-10
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 v
Contents
Section IV PATTERN OF OPERATIONS 7-10RESPONSE 7-10RECOVERY 7-11RESTORATION 7-11
Section V SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS 7-11MOVEMENT INTO AREA OF OPERATIONS 7-12ESTABLISHMENT OF BASE OF OPERATIONS 7-12MAINTENANCE OF SUPPORT 7-13TERMINATION OF OPERATIONS 7-13
Section VI TRAINING CONSIDERATIONS 7-13TRAINING PLAN 7-13BASIC SOLDIER SKILLS 7-14SPECIFIC TRAINING 7-15ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 7-15
Chapter 8 TACTICAL ENABLING OPERATIONS 8-1
Section I SECURITY OPERATIONS 8-1PURPOSE 8-1TYPES 8-1SCREEN 8-2GUARD 8-4COVER 8-7AREA SECURITY 8-7LOCAL SECURITY 8-8HIGH-VALUE ASSETS SECURITY 8-8
Section II RELIEF OPERATIONS 8-9PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-9COMMAND AND CONTROL 8-10
Section III BATTLE HANDOVER AND PASSAGE OF LINES 8-10BATTLE HANDOVER 8-10PASSAGE OF LINES 8-11FORWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-14REARWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-15REHEARSAL 8-15
Section IV LINKUP OPERATIONS 8-15PREPARATION 8-15CONTROL 8-16FORMS OF LINKUP 8-16
Section V RIVER-CROSSING OPERATIONS 8-20PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-20ASSAULT OF CROSSING SITE 8-21
Section VI COMBINED-ARMS BREACHING OPERATIONS 8-23TENETS 8-23DELIBERATE OPERATIONS 8-27HASTY OPERATIONS 8-29
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 vi
Contents
Chapter 9 COMMAND POSTS 9-1
Section I FACILITIES9-1SURVIVABILITY 9-1DISPLACEMENT 9-2
Section II OPERATIONS9-3COMMUNICATIONS 9-3MAPS 9-3BATTLE CAPTAIN9-4
Section III COMMUNICATIONS9-5RESPONSIBILITIES 9-5MEANS OF COMMUNICATION9-5RADIO TRANSMISSIONS9-5INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIA9-5SYSTEMS9-6
Chapter 10 WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS10-1
Section I FIRE SUPPORT10-1INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEMS 10-1FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND COORDINATION10-3FIRE SUPPORT AND MDMP10-6MORTARS IN BATTALION CLOSE FIGHT 10-8ECHELONMENT OF FIRES10-8EXECUTION CONSIDERATIONS 10-9AIR SUPPORT10-14
Section II MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 10-21MISSION10-21ORGANIZATION10-21PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-22ESSENTIAL MOBILITY AND SURVIVABILITY TASKS10-23SCATTERABLE MINES10-24
Section III PROTECTION10-30MISSION10-30ORGANIZATION10-30PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-31ROLE OF AIR DEFENSE OFFICER 10-32AIR DEFENSE TYPES 10-33AIR DEFENSE WARNINGS AND WEAPONS CONTROL STATUS10-34CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR OPERATIONS10-34MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT10-35
Section IV COMMAND AND CONTROL (SIGNAL)10-37BATTALION SIGNAL OFFICER10-37BATTALION COMMUNICATIONS SECTION 10-37
Section V INTELLIGENCE10-38INFANTRY BATTALION INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND
RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS 10-38IBCT INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS10-40
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 vii
Contents
Section VI SUSTAINMENT 10-41ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION 10-41BATTALION TRAINS OPERATIONS 10-49SUPPLY AND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS 10-51MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 10-56HEALTH SERVICE SUPPORT 10-58SOLDIERrsquoS LOAD 10-62OTHER OPERATIONS 10-63
Chapter 11 URBAN OPERATIONS 11-1
Section I INTRODUCTION 11-1FUNDAMENTALS 11-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 11-4ROLE OF INFANTRY BATTALION 11-5TACTICAL CHALLENGES 11-5
Section II METT-TC 11-6MISSION 11-7ENEMY 11-7URBAN MAPPING PROCEDURES 11-9TERRAIN AND WEATHER 11-14TROOPS AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE 11-17TIME 11-18CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS 11-18
Section III COMMAND AND CONTROL 11-19ENEMY FOCUS 11-19COMMANDERrsquoS CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 11-19TASK ORGANIZATION 11-20REHEARSALS 11-21FIRE SUPPORT 11-21FIELD ARTILLERY 11-22MORTARS 11-23COMMUNICATIONS 11-25WEAPONS EFFECTS 11-26
Section IV OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-27OFFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-27TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-28TRANSITION 11-32MOVEMENT TO CONTACT 11-32INFILTRATION 11-33ATTACK OF A VILLAGE 11-34NODAL ATTACK 11-35
Section V DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-37DEFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-37DEFENSIVE PLANNING 11-38INTEGRATION OF URBAN AREA 11-39NODAL DEFENSE 11-39DELAY 11-42
viii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
LOGISTICS3-12MEDICAL 3-13COMMUNICATIONS 3-13
Chapter 4 OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 4-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 4-1SURPRISE4-1CONCENTRATION4-2TEMPO 4-2AUDACITY4-2CONTACT CONTINUUM4-2
Section II ORGANIZATION4-3DECISIVE OPERATIONS4-3SHAPING OPERATIONS 4-4SUSTAINING OPERATIONS 4-4MAIN EFFORT4-5RESERVE4-5FOLLOW AND SUPPORT4-6FOLLOW AND ASSUME4-6
Section III SEQUENCE 4-7PREPARATION 4-7EXECUTION 4-7
Section IV FORMS OF MANEUVER 4-9ENVELOPMENT4-9PENETRATION 4-10TURNING MOVEMENT4-11INFILTRATION 4-12FRONTAL ATTACK 4-14MOVEMENT TECHNIQUES AND FORMATIONS4-15
Section V FORMS OF TACTICAL OFFENSE4-20HASTY OPERATIONS 4-20DELIBERATE OPERATIONS4-20MOVEMENT TO CONTACT4-21ATTACKS4-39
Section VI PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 4-59FORCE ORGANIZATION4-60INTELLIGENCE RECONNAISSANCE AND SURVEILLANCE4-60SCHEME OF MANEUVER 4-61FIRE SUPPORT 4-62
Section VII TRANSITIONAL OPERATIONS 4-63CONSOLIDATION 4-63REORGANIZATION4-64CONTINUATION OF OPERATIONS4-64DEFENSE 4-64
Chapter 5 DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 5-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 5-1PURPOSE5-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 iii
Contents
ORGANIZATION 5-1CHARACTERISTICS 5-4PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-6PREPARATION 5-10
Section II TYPES 5-11AREA DEFENSE 5-11FORWARD DEFENSE 5-12DEFENSE IN DEPTH 5-13EXECUTION 5-14BATTLE HANDOVER 5-15MOBILE DEFENSE 5-18RETROGRADE OPERATIONS 5-18
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-35KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE 5-36COMMANDERrsquoS VISION 5-36HOW AND WHERE TO DEFEAT ENEMY 5-36FORCES AND ASSETS AVAILABLE 5-36EFFECTS 5-36
Section IV SEQUENCE 5-37OCCUPATION AND ESTABLISHMENT OF SECURITY 5-37POSITIONING OF FORCES 5-38SECURITY OPERATIONS 5-38SECURITY AREA ENGAGEMENT 5-38MAIN BATTLE AREA FIGHT 5-39FOLLOW-ON MISSIONS 5-40
Section V TECHNIQUES 5-40DEFEND AN AREA OF OPERATIONS 5-40DEFEND A BATTLE POSITION 5-43CONDUCT A REVERSE SLOPE DEFENSE 5-46DEFEND A STRONGPOINT 5-48CONDUCT A PERIMETER DEFENSE 5-54RESERVE 5-56QUICK REACTION FORCE 5-57COUNTERATTACK 5-57
Section VI MANEUVER AND PROTECTION INTEGRATION 5-57COUNTERMOBILITY 5-57SURVIVABILITY 5-62
Chapter 6 STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 6-1PURPOSE 6-1CHARACTERISTICS 6-3
Section II TYPES OF STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-6PEACE OPERATIONS 6-6OPERATIONS IN SUPPORT OF DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS 6-8FOREIGN INTERNAL DEFENSE 6-8HUMANITARIAN AND CIVIC ASSISTANCE 6-9
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 iv
Contents
FOREIGN HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE 6-10SUPPORT TO INSURGENCIES 6-10SECURITY ASSISTANCE6-10SUPPORT TO COUNTERDRUG OPERATIONS 6-10COMBATING OF TERRORISM 6-11NONCOMBATANT EVACUATION OPERATIONS 6-12ARMS CONTROL 6-12SHOW OF FORCE 6-13
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS6-13DECENTRALIZED OPERATIONS 6-13METT-TC CONSIDERATIONS6-14RULES OF ENGAGEMENT 6-15RULES OF INTERACTION6-15PROTECTION AND FIELD DISCIPLINE 6-15SEQUENCE OF STABILITY OPERATIONS ACTIONS6-17TASK ORGANIZATION 6-18MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS 6-19OPERATIONS WITH OUTSIDE AGENCIES 6-19
Section IV WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 6-19FIRE SUPPORT 6-19MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 6-20PROTECTION 6-21COMMAND AND CONTROL6-22INTELLIGENCE 6-23SUSTAINMENT 6-25OTHER CONSIDERATIONS6-26
Section V TECHNIQUES 6-27PRESENCE PATROLS 6-27OBSERVATION POSTS6-27SECURITY OF OFFICIALS 6-28STATIC SECURITY POSTS6-28SEARCHES 6-30ROADBLOCKS AND OTHER CHECKPOINTS 6-35
Chapter 7 CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 7-1PURPOSE7-2ARMY ROLE7-2
Section II FORMS OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-3RELIEF OPERATIONS7-3SUPPORT TO CBRNE-CM 7-3SUPPORT TO CIVIL LAW ENFORCEMENT7-4
Section III PLANNING AND EXECUTING OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-5PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 7-5PLANNING PROCESS7-6WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 7-7INFORMATION OPERATIONS 7-10
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 v
Contents
Section IV PATTERN OF OPERATIONS 7-10RESPONSE 7-10RECOVERY 7-11RESTORATION 7-11
Section V SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS 7-11MOVEMENT INTO AREA OF OPERATIONS 7-12ESTABLISHMENT OF BASE OF OPERATIONS 7-12MAINTENANCE OF SUPPORT 7-13TERMINATION OF OPERATIONS 7-13
Section VI TRAINING CONSIDERATIONS 7-13TRAINING PLAN 7-13BASIC SOLDIER SKILLS 7-14SPECIFIC TRAINING 7-15ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 7-15
Chapter 8 TACTICAL ENABLING OPERATIONS 8-1
Section I SECURITY OPERATIONS 8-1PURPOSE 8-1TYPES 8-1SCREEN 8-2GUARD 8-4COVER 8-7AREA SECURITY 8-7LOCAL SECURITY 8-8HIGH-VALUE ASSETS SECURITY 8-8
Section II RELIEF OPERATIONS 8-9PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-9COMMAND AND CONTROL 8-10
Section III BATTLE HANDOVER AND PASSAGE OF LINES 8-10BATTLE HANDOVER 8-10PASSAGE OF LINES 8-11FORWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-14REARWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-15REHEARSAL 8-15
Section IV LINKUP OPERATIONS 8-15PREPARATION 8-15CONTROL 8-16FORMS OF LINKUP 8-16
Section V RIVER-CROSSING OPERATIONS 8-20PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-20ASSAULT OF CROSSING SITE 8-21
Section VI COMBINED-ARMS BREACHING OPERATIONS 8-23TENETS 8-23DELIBERATE OPERATIONS 8-27HASTY OPERATIONS 8-29
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 vi
Contents
Chapter 9 COMMAND POSTS 9-1
Section I FACILITIES9-1SURVIVABILITY 9-1DISPLACEMENT 9-2
Section II OPERATIONS9-3COMMUNICATIONS 9-3MAPS 9-3BATTLE CAPTAIN9-4
Section III COMMUNICATIONS9-5RESPONSIBILITIES 9-5MEANS OF COMMUNICATION9-5RADIO TRANSMISSIONS9-5INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIA9-5SYSTEMS9-6
Chapter 10 WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS10-1
Section I FIRE SUPPORT10-1INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEMS 10-1FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND COORDINATION10-3FIRE SUPPORT AND MDMP10-6MORTARS IN BATTALION CLOSE FIGHT 10-8ECHELONMENT OF FIRES10-8EXECUTION CONSIDERATIONS 10-9AIR SUPPORT10-14
Section II MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 10-21MISSION10-21ORGANIZATION10-21PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-22ESSENTIAL MOBILITY AND SURVIVABILITY TASKS10-23SCATTERABLE MINES10-24
Section III PROTECTION10-30MISSION10-30ORGANIZATION10-30PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-31ROLE OF AIR DEFENSE OFFICER 10-32AIR DEFENSE TYPES 10-33AIR DEFENSE WARNINGS AND WEAPONS CONTROL STATUS10-34CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR OPERATIONS10-34MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT10-35
Section IV COMMAND AND CONTROL (SIGNAL)10-37BATTALION SIGNAL OFFICER10-37BATTALION COMMUNICATIONS SECTION 10-37
Section V INTELLIGENCE10-38INFANTRY BATTALION INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND
RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS 10-38IBCT INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS10-40
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 vii
Contents
Section VI SUSTAINMENT 10-41ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION 10-41BATTALION TRAINS OPERATIONS 10-49SUPPLY AND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS 10-51MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 10-56HEALTH SERVICE SUPPORT 10-58SOLDIERrsquoS LOAD 10-62OTHER OPERATIONS 10-63
Chapter 11 URBAN OPERATIONS 11-1
Section I INTRODUCTION 11-1FUNDAMENTALS 11-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 11-4ROLE OF INFANTRY BATTALION 11-5TACTICAL CHALLENGES 11-5
Section II METT-TC 11-6MISSION 11-7ENEMY 11-7URBAN MAPPING PROCEDURES 11-9TERRAIN AND WEATHER 11-14TROOPS AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE 11-17TIME 11-18CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS 11-18
Section III COMMAND AND CONTROL 11-19ENEMY FOCUS 11-19COMMANDERrsquoS CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 11-19TASK ORGANIZATION 11-20REHEARSALS 11-21FIRE SUPPORT 11-21FIELD ARTILLERY 11-22MORTARS 11-23COMMUNICATIONS 11-25WEAPONS EFFECTS 11-26
Section IV OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-27OFFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-27TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-28TRANSITION 11-32MOVEMENT TO CONTACT 11-32INFILTRATION 11-33ATTACK OF A VILLAGE 11-34NODAL ATTACK 11-35
Section V DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-37DEFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-37DEFENSIVE PLANNING 11-38INTEGRATION OF URBAN AREA 11-39NODAL DEFENSE 11-39DELAY 11-42
viii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
ORGANIZATION 5-1CHARACTERISTICS 5-4PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-6PREPARATION 5-10
Section II TYPES 5-11AREA DEFENSE 5-11FORWARD DEFENSE 5-12DEFENSE IN DEPTH 5-13EXECUTION 5-14BATTLE HANDOVER 5-15MOBILE DEFENSE 5-18RETROGRADE OPERATIONS 5-18
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 5-35KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL DEFENSE 5-36COMMANDERrsquoS VISION 5-36HOW AND WHERE TO DEFEAT ENEMY 5-36FORCES AND ASSETS AVAILABLE 5-36EFFECTS 5-36
Section IV SEQUENCE 5-37OCCUPATION AND ESTABLISHMENT OF SECURITY 5-37POSITIONING OF FORCES 5-38SECURITY OPERATIONS 5-38SECURITY AREA ENGAGEMENT 5-38MAIN BATTLE AREA FIGHT 5-39FOLLOW-ON MISSIONS 5-40
Section V TECHNIQUES 5-40DEFEND AN AREA OF OPERATIONS 5-40DEFEND A BATTLE POSITION 5-43CONDUCT A REVERSE SLOPE DEFENSE 5-46DEFEND A STRONGPOINT 5-48CONDUCT A PERIMETER DEFENSE 5-54RESERVE 5-56QUICK REACTION FORCE 5-57COUNTERATTACK 5-57
Section VI MANEUVER AND PROTECTION INTEGRATION 5-57COUNTERMOBILITY 5-57SURVIVABILITY 5-62
Chapter 6 STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 6-1PURPOSE 6-1CHARACTERISTICS 6-3
Section II TYPES OF STABILITY OPERATIONS 6-6PEACE OPERATIONS 6-6OPERATIONS IN SUPPORT OF DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS 6-8FOREIGN INTERNAL DEFENSE 6-8HUMANITARIAN AND CIVIC ASSISTANCE 6-9
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 iv
Contents
FOREIGN HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE 6-10SUPPORT TO INSURGENCIES 6-10SECURITY ASSISTANCE6-10SUPPORT TO COUNTERDRUG OPERATIONS 6-10COMBATING OF TERRORISM 6-11NONCOMBATANT EVACUATION OPERATIONS 6-12ARMS CONTROL 6-12SHOW OF FORCE 6-13
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS6-13DECENTRALIZED OPERATIONS 6-13METT-TC CONSIDERATIONS6-14RULES OF ENGAGEMENT 6-15RULES OF INTERACTION6-15PROTECTION AND FIELD DISCIPLINE 6-15SEQUENCE OF STABILITY OPERATIONS ACTIONS6-17TASK ORGANIZATION 6-18MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS 6-19OPERATIONS WITH OUTSIDE AGENCIES 6-19
Section IV WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 6-19FIRE SUPPORT 6-19MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 6-20PROTECTION 6-21COMMAND AND CONTROL6-22INTELLIGENCE 6-23SUSTAINMENT 6-25OTHER CONSIDERATIONS6-26
Section V TECHNIQUES 6-27PRESENCE PATROLS 6-27OBSERVATION POSTS6-27SECURITY OF OFFICIALS 6-28STATIC SECURITY POSTS6-28SEARCHES 6-30ROADBLOCKS AND OTHER CHECKPOINTS 6-35
Chapter 7 CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 7-1PURPOSE7-2ARMY ROLE7-2
Section II FORMS OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-3RELIEF OPERATIONS7-3SUPPORT TO CBRNE-CM 7-3SUPPORT TO CIVIL LAW ENFORCEMENT7-4
Section III PLANNING AND EXECUTING OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-5PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 7-5PLANNING PROCESS7-6WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 7-7INFORMATION OPERATIONS 7-10
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 v
Contents
Section IV PATTERN OF OPERATIONS 7-10RESPONSE 7-10RECOVERY 7-11RESTORATION 7-11
Section V SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS 7-11MOVEMENT INTO AREA OF OPERATIONS 7-12ESTABLISHMENT OF BASE OF OPERATIONS 7-12MAINTENANCE OF SUPPORT 7-13TERMINATION OF OPERATIONS 7-13
Section VI TRAINING CONSIDERATIONS 7-13TRAINING PLAN 7-13BASIC SOLDIER SKILLS 7-14SPECIFIC TRAINING 7-15ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 7-15
Chapter 8 TACTICAL ENABLING OPERATIONS 8-1
Section I SECURITY OPERATIONS 8-1PURPOSE 8-1TYPES 8-1SCREEN 8-2GUARD 8-4COVER 8-7AREA SECURITY 8-7LOCAL SECURITY 8-8HIGH-VALUE ASSETS SECURITY 8-8
Section II RELIEF OPERATIONS 8-9PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-9COMMAND AND CONTROL 8-10
Section III BATTLE HANDOVER AND PASSAGE OF LINES 8-10BATTLE HANDOVER 8-10PASSAGE OF LINES 8-11FORWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-14REARWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-15REHEARSAL 8-15
Section IV LINKUP OPERATIONS 8-15PREPARATION 8-15CONTROL 8-16FORMS OF LINKUP 8-16
Section V RIVER-CROSSING OPERATIONS 8-20PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-20ASSAULT OF CROSSING SITE 8-21
Section VI COMBINED-ARMS BREACHING OPERATIONS 8-23TENETS 8-23DELIBERATE OPERATIONS 8-27HASTY OPERATIONS 8-29
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 vi
Contents
Chapter 9 COMMAND POSTS 9-1
Section I FACILITIES9-1SURVIVABILITY 9-1DISPLACEMENT 9-2
Section II OPERATIONS9-3COMMUNICATIONS 9-3MAPS 9-3BATTLE CAPTAIN9-4
Section III COMMUNICATIONS9-5RESPONSIBILITIES 9-5MEANS OF COMMUNICATION9-5RADIO TRANSMISSIONS9-5INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIA9-5SYSTEMS9-6
Chapter 10 WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS10-1
Section I FIRE SUPPORT10-1INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEMS 10-1FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND COORDINATION10-3FIRE SUPPORT AND MDMP10-6MORTARS IN BATTALION CLOSE FIGHT 10-8ECHELONMENT OF FIRES10-8EXECUTION CONSIDERATIONS 10-9AIR SUPPORT10-14
Section II MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 10-21MISSION10-21ORGANIZATION10-21PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-22ESSENTIAL MOBILITY AND SURVIVABILITY TASKS10-23SCATTERABLE MINES10-24
Section III PROTECTION10-30MISSION10-30ORGANIZATION10-30PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-31ROLE OF AIR DEFENSE OFFICER 10-32AIR DEFENSE TYPES 10-33AIR DEFENSE WARNINGS AND WEAPONS CONTROL STATUS10-34CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR OPERATIONS10-34MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT10-35
Section IV COMMAND AND CONTROL (SIGNAL)10-37BATTALION SIGNAL OFFICER10-37BATTALION COMMUNICATIONS SECTION 10-37
Section V INTELLIGENCE10-38INFANTRY BATTALION INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND
RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS 10-38IBCT INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS10-40
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 vii
Contents
Section VI SUSTAINMENT 10-41ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION 10-41BATTALION TRAINS OPERATIONS 10-49SUPPLY AND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS 10-51MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 10-56HEALTH SERVICE SUPPORT 10-58SOLDIERrsquoS LOAD 10-62OTHER OPERATIONS 10-63
Chapter 11 URBAN OPERATIONS 11-1
Section I INTRODUCTION 11-1FUNDAMENTALS 11-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 11-4ROLE OF INFANTRY BATTALION 11-5TACTICAL CHALLENGES 11-5
Section II METT-TC 11-6MISSION 11-7ENEMY 11-7URBAN MAPPING PROCEDURES 11-9TERRAIN AND WEATHER 11-14TROOPS AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE 11-17TIME 11-18CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS 11-18
Section III COMMAND AND CONTROL 11-19ENEMY FOCUS 11-19COMMANDERrsquoS CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 11-19TASK ORGANIZATION 11-20REHEARSALS 11-21FIRE SUPPORT 11-21FIELD ARTILLERY 11-22MORTARS 11-23COMMUNICATIONS 11-25WEAPONS EFFECTS 11-26
Section IV OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-27OFFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-27TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-28TRANSITION 11-32MOVEMENT TO CONTACT 11-32INFILTRATION 11-33ATTACK OF A VILLAGE 11-34NODAL ATTACK 11-35
Section V DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-37DEFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-37DEFENSIVE PLANNING 11-38INTEGRATION OF URBAN AREA 11-39NODAL DEFENSE 11-39DELAY 11-42
viii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
FOREIGN HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE 6-10SUPPORT TO INSURGENCIES 6-10SECURITY ASSISTANCE6-10SUPPORT TO COUNTERDRUG OPERATIONS 6-10COMBATING OF TERRORISM 6-11NONCOMBATANT EVACUATION OPERATIONS 6-12ARMS CONTROL 6-12SHOW OF FORCE 6-13
Section III PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS6-13DECENTRALIZED OPERATIONS 6-13METT-TC CONSIDERATIONS6-14RULES OF ENGAGEMENT 6-15RULES OF INTERACTION6-15PROTECTION AND FIELD DISCIPLINE 6-15SEQUENCE OF STABILITY OPERATIONS ACTIONS6-17TASK ORGANIZATION 6-18MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS 6-19OPERATIONS WITH OUTSIDE AGENCIES 6-19
Section IV WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 6-19FIRE SUPPORT 6-19MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 6-20PROTECTION 6-21COMMAND AND CONTROL6-22INTELLIGENCE 6-23SUSTAINMENT 6-25OTHER CONSIDERATIONS6-26
Section V TECHNIQUES 6-27PRESENCE PATROLS 6-27OBSERVATION POSTS6-27SECURITY OF OFFICIALS 6-28STATIC SECURITY POSTS6-28SEARCHES 6-30ROADBLOCKS AND OTHER CHECKPOINTS 6-35
Chapter 7 CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-1
Section I FUNDAMENTALS 7-1PURPOSE7-2ARMY ROLE7-2
Section II FORMS OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-3RELIEF OPERATIONS7-3SUPPORT TO CBRNE-CM 7-3SUPPORT TO CIVIL LAW ENFORCEMENT7-4
Section III PLANNING AND EXECUTING OF CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS7-5PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 7-5PLANNING PROCESS7-6WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS 7-7INFORMATION OPERATIONS 7-10
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 v
Contents
Section IV PATTERN OF OPERATIONS 7-10RESPONSE 7-10RECOVERY 7-11RESTORATION 7-11
Section V SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS 7-11MOVEMENT INTO AREA OF OPERATIONS 7-12ESTABLISHMENT OF BASE OF OPERATIONS 7-12MAINTENANCE OF SUPPORT 7-13TERMINATION OF OPERATIONS 7-13
Section VI TRAINING CONSIDERATIONS 7-13TRAINING PLAN 7-13BASIC SOLDIER SKILLS 7-14SPECIFIC TRAINING 7-15ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 7-15
Chapter 8 TACTICAL ENABLING OPERATIONS 8-1
Section I SECURITY OPERATIONS 8-1PURPOSE 8-1TYPES 8-1SCREEN 8-2GUARD 8-4COVER 8-7AREA SECURITY 8-7LOCAL SECURITY 8-8HIGH-VALUE ASSETS SECURITY 8-8
Section II RELIEF OPERATIONS 8-9PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-9COMMAND AND CONTROL 8-10
Section III BATTLE HANDOVER AND PASSAGE OF LINES 8-10BATTLE HANDOVER 8-10PASSAGE OF LINES 8-11FORWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-14REARWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-15REHEARSAL 8-15
Section IV LINKUP OPERATIONS 8-15PREPARATION 8-15CONTROL 8-16FORMS OF LINKUP 8-16
Section V RIVER-CROSSING OPERATIONS 8-20PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-20ASSAULT OF CROSSING SITE 8-21
Section VI COMBINED-ARMS BREACHING OPERATIONS 8-23TENETS 8-23DELIBERATE OPERATIONS 8-27HASTY OPERATIONS 8-29
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 vi
Contents
Chapter 9 COMMAND POSTS 9-1
Section I FACILITIES9-1SURVIVABILITY 9-1DISPLACEMENT 9-2
Section II OPERATIONS9-3COMMUNICATIONS 9-3MAPS 9-3BATTLE CAPTAIN9-4
Section III COMMUNICATIONS9-5RESPONSIBILITIES 9-5MEANS OF COMMUNICATION9-5RADIO TRANSMISSIONS9-5INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIA9-5SYSTEMS9-6
Chapter 10 WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS10-1
Section I FIRE SUPPORT10-1INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEMS 10-1FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND COORDINATION10-3FIRE SUPPORT AND MDMP10-6MORTARS IN BATTALION CLOSE FIGHT 10-8ECHELONMENT OF FIRES10-8EXECUTION CONSIDERATIONS 10-9AIR SUPPORT10-14
Section II MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 10-21MISSION10-21ORGANIZATION10-21PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-22ESSENTIAL MOBILITY AND SURVIVABILITY TASKS10-23SCATTERABLE MINES10-24
Section III PROTECTION10-30MISSION10-30ORGANIZATION10-30PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-31ROLE OF AIR DEFENSE OFFICER 10-32AIR DEFENSE TYPES 10-33AIR DEFENSE WARNINGS AND WEAPONS CONTROL STATUS10-34CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR OPERATIONS10-34MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT10-35
Section IV COMMAND AND CONTROL (SIGNAL)10-37BATTALION SIGNAL OFFICER10-37BATTALION COMMUNICATIONS SECTION 10-37
Section V INTELLIGENCE10-38INFANTRY BATTALION INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND
RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS 10-38IBCT INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS10-40
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 vii
Contents
Section VI SUSTAINMENT 10-41ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION 10-41BATTALION TRAINS OPERATIONS 10-49SUPPLY AND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS 10-51MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 10-56HEALTH SERVICE SUPPORT 10-58SOLDIERrsquoS LOAD 10-62OTHER OPERATIONS 10-63
Chapter 11 URBAN OPERATIONS 11-1
Section I INTRODUCTION 11-1FUNDAMENTALS 11-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 11-4ROLE OF INFANTRY BATTALION 11-5TACTICAL CHALLENGES 11-5
Section II METT-TC 11-6MISSION 11-7ENEMY 11-7URBAN MAPPING PROCEDURES 11-9TERRAIN AND WEATHER 11-14TROOPS AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE 11-17TIME 11-18CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS 11-18
Section III COMMAND AND CONTROL 11-19ENEMY FOCUS 11-19COMMANDERrsquoS CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 11-19TASK ORGANIZATION 11-20REHEARSALS 11-21FIRE SUPPORT 11-21FIELD ARTILLERY 11-22MORTARS 11-23COMMUNICATIONS 11-25WEAPONS EFFECTS 11-26
Section IV OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-27OFFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-27TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-28TRANSITION 11-32MOVEMENT TO CONTACT 11-32INFILTRATION 11-33ATTACK OF A VILLAGE 11-34NODAL ATTACK 11-35
Section V DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-37DEFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-37DEFENSIVE PLANNING 11-38INTEGRATION OF URBAN AREA 11-39NODAL DEFENSE 11-39DELAY 11-42
viii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Section IV PATTERN OF OPERATIONS 7-10RESPONSE 7-10RECOVERY 7-11RESTORATION 7-11
Section V SEQUENCE OF OPERATIONS 7-11MOVEMENT INTO AREA OF OPERATIONS 7-12ESTABLISHMENT OF BASE OF OPERATIONS 7-12MAINTENANCE OF SUPPORT 7-13TERMINATION OF OPERATIONS 7-13
Section VI TRAINING CONSIDERATIONS 7-13TRAINING PLAN 7-13BASIC SOLDIER SKILLS 7-14SPECIFIC TRAINING 7-15ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 7-15
Chapter 8 TACTICAL ENABLING OPERATIONS 8-1
Section I SECURITY OPERATIONS 8-1PURPOSE 8-1TYPES 8-1SCREEN 8-2GUARD 8-4COVER 8-7AREA SECURITY 8-7LOCAL SECURITY 8-8HIGH-VALUE ASSETS SECURITY 8-8
Section II RELIEF OPERATIONS 8-9PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-9COMMAND AND CONTROL 8-10
Section III BATTLE HANDOVER AND PASSAGE OF LINES 8-10BATTLE HANDOVER 8-10PASSAGE OF LINES 8-11FORWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-14REARWARD PASSAGE OF LINES 8-15REHEARSAL 8-15
Section IV LINKUP OPERATIONS 8-15PREPARATION 8-15CONTROL 8-16FORMS OF LINKUP 8-16
Section V RIVER-CROSSING OPERATIONS 8-20PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 8-20ASSAULT OF CROSSING SITE 8-21
Section VI COMBINED-ARMS BREACHING OPERATIONS 8-23TENETS 8-23DELIBERATE OPERATIONS 8-27HASTY OPERATIONS 8-29
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 vi
Contents
Chapter 9 COMMAND POSTS 9-1
Section I FACILITIES9-1SURVIVABILITY 9-1DISPLACEMENT 9-2
Section II OPERATIONS9-3COMMUNICATIONS 9-3MAPS 9-3BATTLE CAPTAIN9-4
Section III COMMUNICATIONS9-5RESPONSIBILITIES 9-5MEANS OF COMMUNICATION9-5RADIO TRANSMISSIONS9-5INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIA9-5SYSTEMS9-6
Chapter 10 WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS10-1
Section I FIRE SUPPORT10-1INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEMS 10-1FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND COORDINATION10-3FIRE SUPPORT AND MDMP10-6MORTARS IN BATTALION CLOSE FIGHT 10-8ECHELONMENT OF FIRES10-8EXECUTION CONSIDERATIONS 10-9AIR SUPPORT10-14
Section II MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 10-21MISSION10-21ORGANIZATION10-21PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-22ESSENTIAL MOBILITY AND SURVIVABILITY TASKS10-23SCATTERABLE MINES10-24
Section III PROTECTION10-30MISSION10-30ORGANIZATION10-30PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-31ROLE OF AIR DEFENSE OFFICER 10-32AIR DEFENSE TYPES 10-33AIR DEFENSE WARNINGS AND WEAPONS CONTROL STATUS10-34CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR OPERATIONS10-34MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT10-35
Section IV COMMAND AND CONTROL (SIGNAL)10-37BATTALION SIGNAL OFFICER10-37BATTALION COMMUNICATIONS SECTION 10-37
Section V INTELLIGENCE10-38INFANTRY BATTALION INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND
RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS 10-38IBCT INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS10-40
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 vii
Contents
Section VI SUSTAINMENT 10-41ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION 10-41BATTALION TRAINS OPERATIONS 10-49SUPPLY AND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS 10-51MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 10-56HEALTH SERVICE SUPPORT 10-58SOLDIERrsquoS LOAD 10-62OTHER OPERATIONS 10-63
Chapter 11 URBAN OPERATIONS 11-1
Section I INTRODUCTION 11-1FUNDAMENTALS 11-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 11-4ROLE OF INFANTRY BATTALION 11-5TACTICAL CHALLENGES 11-5
Section II METT-TC 11-6MISSION 11-7ENEMY 11-7URBAN MAPPING PROCEDURES 11-9TERRAIN AND WEATHER 11-14TROOPS AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE 11-17TIME 11-18CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS 11-18
Section III COMMAND AND CONTROL 11-19ENEMY FOCUS 11-19COMMANDERrsquoS CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 11-19TASK ORGANIZATION 11-20REHEARSALS 11-21FIRE SUPPORT 11-21FIELD ARTILLERY 11-22MORTARS 11-23COMMUNICATIONS 11-25WEAPONS EFFECTS 11-26
Section IV OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-27OFFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-27TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-28TRANSITION 11-32MOVEMENT TO CONTACT 11-32INFILTRATION 11-33ATTACK OF A VILLAGE 11-34NODAL ATTACK 11-35
Section V DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-37DEFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-37DEFENSIVE PLANNING 11-38INTEGRATION OF URBAN AREA 11-39NODAL DEFENSE 11-39DELAY 11-42
viii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Chapter 9 COMMAND POSTS 9-1
Section I FACILITIES9-1SURVIVABILITY 9-1DISPLACEMENT 9-2
Section II OPERATIONS9-3COMMUNICATIONS 9-3MAPS 9-3BATTLE CAPTAIN9-4
Section III COMMUNICATIONS9-5RESPONSIBILITIES 9-5MEANS OF COMMUNICATION9-5RADIO TRANSMISSIONS9-5INFORMATION STORAGE MEDIA9-5SYSTEMS9-6
Chapter 10 WARFIGHTING FUNCTIONS10-1
Section I FIRE SUPPORT10-1INDIRECT FIRE SUPPORT SYSTEMS 10-1FIRE SUPPORT PLANNING AND COORDINATION10-3FIRE SUPPORT AND MDMP10-6MORTARS IN BATTALION CLOSE FIGHT 10-8ECHELONMENT OF FIRES10-8EXECUTION CONSIDERATIONS 10-9AIR SUPPORT10-14
Section II MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER 10-21MISSION10-21ORGANIZATION10-21PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-22ESSENTIAL MOBILITY AND SURVIVABILITY TASKS10-23SCATTERABLE MINES10-24
Section III PROTECTION10-30MISSION10-30ORGANIZATION10-30PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 10-31ROLE OF AIR DEFENSE OFFICER 10-32AIR DEFENSE TYPES 10-33AIR DEFENSE WARNINGS AND WEAPONS CONTROL STATUS10-34CHEMICAL BIOLOGICAL RADIOLOGICAL AND NUCLEAR OPERATIONS10-34MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT10-35
Section IV COMMAND AND CONTROL (SIGNAL)10-37BATTALION SIGNAL OFFICER10-37BATTALION COMMUNICATIONS SECTION 10-37
Section V INTELLIGENCE10-38INFANTRY BATTALION INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND
RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS 10-38IBCT INFORMATION SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE ASSETS10-40
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 vii
Contents
Section VI SUSTAINMENT 10-41ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION 10-41BATTALION TRAINS OPERATIONS 10-49SUPPLY AND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS 10-51MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 10-56HEALTH SERVICE SUPPORT 10-58SOLDIERrsquoS LOAD 10-62OTHER OPERATIONS 10-63
Chapter 11 URBAN OPERATIONS 11-1
Section I INTRODUCTION 11-1FUNDAMENTALS 11-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 11-4ROLE OF INFANTRY BATTALION 11-5TACTICAL CHALLENGES 11-5
Section II METT-TC 11-6MISSION 11-7ENEMY 11-7URBAN MAPPING PROCEDURES 11-9TERRAIN AND WEATHER 11-14TROOPS AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE 11-17TIME 11-18CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS 11-18
Section III COMMAND AND CONTROL 11-19ENEMY FOCUS 11-19COMMANDERrsquoS CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 11-19TASK ORGANIZATION 11-20REHEARSALS 11-21FIRE SUPPORT 11-21FIELD ARTILLERY 11-22MORTARS 11-23COMMUNICATIONS 11-25WEAPONS EFFECTS 11-26
Section IV OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-27OFFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-27TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-28TRANSITION 11-32MOVEMENT TO CONTACT 11-32INFILTRATION 11-33ATTACK OF A VILLAGE 11-34NODAL ATTACK 11-35
Section V DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-37DEFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-37DEFENSIVE PLANNING 11-38INTEGRATION OF URBAN AREA 11-39NODAL DEFENSE 11-39DELAY 11-42
viii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Section VI SUSTAINMENT 10-41ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION 10-41BATTALION TRAINS OPERATIONS 10-49SUPPLY AND TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS 10-51MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS 10-56HEALTH SERVICE SUPPORT 10-58SOLDIERrsquoS LOAD 10-62OTHER OPERATIONS 10-63
Chapter 11 URBAN OPERATIONS 11-1
Section I INTRODUCTION 11-1FUNDAMENTALS 11-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS 11-4ROLE OF INFANTRY BATTALION 11-5TACTICAL CHALLENGES 11-5
Section II METT-TC 11-6MISSION 11-7ENEMY 11-7URBAN MAPPING PROCEDURES 11-9TERRAIN AND WEATHER 11-14TROOPS AND SUPPORT AVAILABLE 11-17TIME 11-18CIVIL CONSIDERATIONS 11-18
Section III COMMAND AND CONTROL 11-19ENEMY FOCUS 11-19COMMANDERrsquoS CRITICAL INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS 11-19TASK ORGANIZATION 11-20REHEARSALS 11-21FIRE SUPPORT 11-21FIELD ARTILLERY 11-22MORTARS 11-23COMMUNICATIONS 11-25WEAPONS EFFECTS 11-26
Section IV OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-27OFFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-27TYPES OF OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-28TRANSITION 11-32MOVEMENT TO CONTACT 11-32INFILTRATION 11-33ATTACK OF A VILLAGE 11-34NODAL ATTACK 11-35
Section V DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS 11-37DEFENSIVE FRAMEWORK 11-37DEFENSIVE PLANNING 11-38INTEGRATION OF URBAN AREA 11-39NODAL DEFENSE 11-39DELAY 11-42
viii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Appendix A RISK MANAGEMENT AND FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-1
Section I RISK MANAGEMENT A-1TACTICAL RISK A-1ACCIDENT RISK A-1STEP 1--IDENTIFY HAZARDSA-2STEP 2--ASSESS HAZARDS TO DETERMINE RISKS A-3STEP 3--DEVELOP CONTROLS AND MAKE RISK DECISIONSA-4STEP 4--IMPLEMENT CONTROLS A-5STEP 5--SUPERVISE AND EVALUATE A-5
Section II FRATRICIDE AVOIDANCE A-7MAGNITUDE OF PROBLEMA-7RISK IDENTIFICATION AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES A-7PLANNING PHASE A-8PREPARATION PHASE A-8EXECUTION PHASEA-9FRATRICIDE REDUCTION MEASURESA-9FRATRICIDE RISK CONSIDERATIONS A-10
Appendix B MOVEMENTS AND ASSEMBLY AREAS B-1
Section I TACTICAL ROAD MARCH B-1MARCH ELEMENTS B-1MARCH COLUMN ORGANIZATIONB-2PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS B-2MOVEMENT ORDER B-3CONTROL MEASURES B-3SECURITYB-5
Section II ASSEMBLY AREA OPERATIONS B-6TYPES OF ASSEMBLY AREASB-6ORGANIZATIONB-7QUARTERING PARTYB-8OCCUPATION B-10ACTIONS IN ASSEMBLY AREA B-12SECURITY B-12DEPARTURE FROM ASSEMBLY AREA B-13
Appendix C AIR ASSAULT OPERATIONS C-1
Section I CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT MISSION ANALYSIS AND CONSIDERATIONS C-1AIR ASSAULT BATTALION ORGANIZATION C-1ACTIONS OF BATTALION (ndash) C-1
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS C-2INTELLIGENCE C-2MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER C-2FIRE SUPPORT C-2PROTECTION C-2SUSTAINMENT C-3COMMAND AND CONTROL C-3
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 ix
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Section III AIR ASSAULT PLANNING STAGESC-3AIR ASSAULT BATTALION TASK FORCE KEY PERSONNEL C-3AIR ASSAULT ROLESC-4GROUND TACTICAL PLANC-5LANDING PLAN C-6AIR MOVEMENT PLAN C-7LOADING PLANC-8STAGING PLAN C-9
Appendix D HEAVY AND STRYKER CONSIDERATIONSD-1
Section I MISSIONS CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS D-1MOUNTED AND INFANTRYD-3MOUNTED ONLYD-4INFANTRY ONLYD-4
Section II PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS D-6FIRE SUPPORTD-6MOVEMENT AND MANEUVERD-6PROTECTION D-7COMMAND AND CONTROL D-7INTELLIGENCED-7SUSTAINMENTD-7DISMOUNTED INFANTRY MOVEMENT RATES D-8TANK MOUNTED INFANTRYD-8SAFETYD-8
Section III OPERATIONS D-12OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-12EXPLOITATION D-13DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS D-13RETROGRADE OPERATIONS D-14SUSTAINMENTD-14
Appendix E ARMY AVIATION SUPPORT FOR GROUND OPERATIONSE-1MISSIONS E-1OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-3DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS E-5RETROGRADE OPERATIONS E-6COMMUNICATIONSE-6AIR-GROUND INTEGRATIONE-7AIR-GROUND COORDINATION E-7EMPLOYMENT E-14MANEUVER HEADQUARTERS LNO PLANNING REQUIREMENTSE-17ARMY AVIATION MANEUVER SUPPORT IN URBAN OPERATIONS E-18
Appendix F SNIPER EMPLOYMENT F-1PERSONNEL SELECTION CRITERIA F-1SNIPER EMPLOYMENT OFFICER F-3SNIPER TEAMS F-4OFFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-6ACTIONS AGAINST FORTIFIED AREAS F-8
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 x
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
DEFENSIVE EMPLOYMENT F-9RETROGRADE EMPLOYMENT F-10URBAN OPERATIONS EMPLOYMENT F-11STABILITY OPERATIONS AND CIVIL SUPPORT OPERATIONS F-12RIVER CROSSINGS F-12PATROLS F-13SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMANF-14
Appendix G SOF AND JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-1
Section I SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES G-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS G-1TYPES G-1
Section II JOINT INTERAGENCY AND MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS G-7AIR FORCE G-7MARINE CORPS G-14NAVY G-16INTERAGENCY G-18MULTINATIONAL FORCES G-21
Appendix H CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1EFFECTS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATIONS H-1CONTROL OF COMBAT STRESS H-1SLEEP H-4REDUCTION OF IMPACT H-5
Appendix I CBRN ENVIRONMENT OPERATIONS I-1
Section I BATTLEFIELD I-1COMMAND I-1STAFF I-1CHEMICAL AGENTS I-2BIOLOGICAL AGENTS I-2EFFECTS OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS I-3
Section II DEFENSE I-4AVOIDANCE I-4PROTECTION I-5DECONTAMINATION I-5
Appendix J MEDIA CONSIDERATIONS J-1OBJECTIVE J-1REALITIES J-1OBJECTIVES AND INTERESTS J-1CAPABILITIES J-2COMMAND J-2GUIDELINES J-2INTERVIEWS J-3TRAINING J-4MEDIA CARDS J-4
Appendix K UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS K-1DESCRIPTION K-1
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xi
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
FUNDAMENTALS K-1EQUIPMENT K-2BCT AND BELOWK-2AIRSPACE CONTROL MEASURES K-7
Appendix L NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES L-1OVERVIEW L-1DEFINITIONS L-1PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS L-2BASIC COMBAT TRAINING L-2WEAPONS AND MUNITIONS L-4
Appendix M FORWARD OPERATING BASES AND FIRE BASES M-1OVERVIEW M-1FUNDAMENTALS OF BASE DEFENSE M-2SITE SELECTION AND CONSTRUCTION M-3BASE DEFENSE OPERATIONS M-9
Appendix N COUNTERINSURGENCY OPERATIONS TBP
GLOSSARY Glossary-1
REFERENCESReferences-1
INDEX Index-1
Figures
Figure 1-1 Infantry battalion 1-3
Figure 1-2 Ranger battalion 1-4
Figure 1-3 Warfighting functions 1-12
Figure 2-1 Operations process 2-6
Figure 2-2 MDMP steps staff inputs and outputs 2-12
Figure 3-1 Counterreconnaissance organization reconnaissance squadron troop and battalion scout platoon 3-9
Figure 4-1 Contact continuum 4-3
Figure 4-2 Envelopment 4-10
Figure 4-3 Penetration 4-11
Figure 4-4 Turning movement 4-12
Figure 4-5 Infiltration 4-14
Figure 4-6 Frontal attack against a moving enemy 4-15
Figure 4-7 Battalion in column formation 4-16
Figure 4-8 Battalion in wedge formation 4-17
Figure 4-9 Battalion in vee formation 4-18
Figure 4-10 Battalion in echelon left formation 4-19
Figure 4-11 Battalion in line formation 4-20
Figure 4-12 Battalion movement to contact 4-21
FM 3-2120 13 December 2006 xii
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure 4-13 Example of unit dispersing to search 4-25
Figure 4-14 Example of unit massing to attack 4-26
Figure 4-15 Example search and attack method with scout platoon forward4-27
Figure 4-16 Concept of defense 4-39
Figure 4-17 Planning the attack4-49
Figure 4-18 Example of a battalion flank attack 4-50
Figure 4-19 Terrain oriented attack 4-55
Figure 5-1 BCT organization of security zone forces 5-3
Figure 5-2 Example area defense using static and dynamic elements 5-4
Figure 5-3 Example of a forward defense with battalions and companies defending forward5-13
Figure 5-4 Defense in depth 5-14
Figure 5-5 Types of retrograde operation5-19
Figure 5-6 Delay from alternate positions5-25
Figure 5-7 Delay from subsequent positions 5-26
Figure 5-8 Methods for organizing the detachment left in contact 5-31
Figure 5-9 Defense of an AO5-41
Figure 5-10 Disposition of forces in and about a BP 5-43
Figure 5-11 Organization of the reverse slope defense 5-46
Figure 5-12 Examples of strongpoints 5-49
Figure 5-13 Battalion strongpoint all forces within the strongpoint5-50
Figure 5-14 Strongpoint fire support plan 5-53
Figure 5-15 Perimeter defense 5-55
Figure 5-16 Example of a battalion obstacle plan 5-58
Figure 6-1 Types of stability operations6-6
Figure 6-2 Security post6-29
Figure 6-3 Typical organization for search operations 6-31
Figure 6-4 Establishment of cordon6-32
Figure 6-5 Physical layout of roadblock6-37
Figure 8-1 Comparison of types of security operations 8-2
Figure 8-2 Rear flank and advance guard operations 8-4
Figure 8-3 Forward passage of lines 8-12
Figure 8-4 Rearward passage of lines8-12
Figure 8-5 Sustainment plan for rearward passage of lines8-14
Figure 8-6 Linkup of a moving force with a stationary force8-17
Figure 8-7 Linkup of two moving units 8-18
Figure 8-8 Reverse planning sequence8-26
Figure 10-1 Beginning of close air support 10-10
Figure 10-2 Execution of 155-mm shaping fires shifting of close air support10-11
Figure 10-3 Beginning of 81-mm and supporting fires shifting of 155-mm fires10-12
Figure 10-4 Beginning of 60-mm fires shifting of 81-mm fires10-13
Figure 10-5 Cessation of 60-mm fires shifting of supporting fires 10-14
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xiii
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure 10-6 Immediate close air request channels 10-16
Figure 10-7 Infantry brigade combat team engineer company 10-22
Figure 10-8 ADAMs and RAAMs minefield safety template 10-30
Figure 10-9 LOGPAC deliveries 10-43
Figure 10-10 Replenishment operations 10-44
Figure 10-11 Forward support company 10-46
Figure 10-12 Battalion medical platoon 10-60
Figure 10-13 Detainee handling 10-64
Figure 10-14 Battalion detainee holding area 10-66
Figure 11-1 Soldiers conducting close combat in an urban area 11-3
Figure 11-2 Initial photo reconnaissance of urban area of operations 11-10
Figure 11-3 Example of population status overlay 11-11
Figure 11-4 Avenues of approach in the urban area 11-12
Figure 11-5 Sewer and subterranean overlay 11-13
Figure 11-6 Enemy overlay 11-14
Figure 11-7 Example offensive task organization 11-21
Figure 11-8 Illumination during urban operations 11-25
Figure 11-9 Offensive urban operational framework 11-28
Figure 11-10 Security of a foothold in a battalion attack 11-30
Figure 11-11 Systematic clearance within assigned areas 11-31
Figure 11-12 Search and attack technique 11-33
Figure 11-13 Infiltration 11-34
Figure 11-14 Attack of a village 11-35
Figure 11-15 Brigade scheme of maneuver nodal attack 11-36
Figure 11-16 Battalion nodal attack 11-37
Figure 11-17 Defensive urban operational framework 11-38
Figure 11-18 Integration of urban areas into a defense 11-39
Figure 11-19 Nodal defense transitional situation 11-40
Figure 11-20 Nodal defense different defensive techniques 11-41
Figure 11-21 Battalion delay in an urban area 11-43
Figure A-1 Example of completed risk management worksheet A-4
Figure A-2 Example format for fratricide risk assessment matrixA-8
Figure A-3 Fratricide prevention checklist A-11
Figure B-1 Example battalion strip map B-5
Figure C-1 Air assault planning processC-3
Figure D-1 M1 tank danger zone D-9
Figure D-2 BFV danger zone D-10
Figure D-3 BFV TOW backblast danger zone D-11
Figure E-1 Minimum aviation brigade planning requirements E-8
Figure E-2 Battalion close fight SITREPE-9
Figure E-3 Attack team check-inE-10
xiv FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Figure E-4 Aviation direct fire coordination checklist E-11
Figure E-5 Area sketch (simplified) E-20
Figure E-6 Urban grid E-21
Figure E-7 Bullrsquos-eyecheckpoint targeting E-21
Figure E-8 Objective area reference grid E-22
Figure E-9 Target reference points E-22
Figure G-1 Special Forces operational detachment-A G-2
Figure G-2 Preplanned CAS request form G-10
Figure G-3 Immediate CAS request process G-11
Figure G-4 CAS 9-line briefing G-14
Figure G-5 Naval surface fire support G-17
Figure G-6 Naval call for fire grid method G-18
Figure H-1 Combat stress behaviors H-2
Figure K-1 The Shadow UASK-3
Figure K-2 Shadow mission payloadK-4
Figure K-3 The Raven UASK-5
Figure K-4 Camera payloads K-6
Figure K-5 Raven remote video terminal K-7
Figure K-6 UAS request flowK-8
Figure K-7 Example format for UAS mission planning checklist K-11
Figure K-8 Example UAS flight time worksheet K-15
Figure K-9 Immediate mission checklist K-17
Figure K-10 A2C2 checklist K-18
Figure M-1 Example entry control points M-6
Figure M-2 Vehicle-borne IEDs M-8
Tables
Table 3-1 Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance collection assets 3-4
Table 5-1 Comparison of methods of delay 5-24
Table 5-2 Obstacle effects5-59
Table 6-1 Area assessment checklist6-24
Table 8-1 Breaching organization8-25
Table 10-1 Types and characteristics of field artillery cannon systems10-2
Table 10-2 Types and characteristics of mortar systems10-3
Table 10-3 Fire support planning process10-7
Table 10-4 Risk estimate distances for mortars and cannon artillery 10-9
Table 10-5 Self-destruct windows 10-25
Table 10-6 Emplacement authority10-28
Table 10-7 Safety and fragment hazard zones 10-29
Table 10-8 Classes of supply 10-52
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xv
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Contents
Table 11-1 Categories of urban areas 11-15
Table A-1 Risk management steps correlated with MDMP tasks A-2
Table A-2 Examples of potential hazardsA-3
Table A-3 Risk levels and impact on mission execution A-4
Table D-1 Infantry battalion capabilities D-2
Table D-2 Infantry battalion limitations D-3
Table D-3 Examples of possible tasks D-5
Table D-4 Dismounted rates of march (normal terrain)D-8
Table E-1 Rotary-wing aircraftE-3
Table E-2 Examples of normal weapon engagement ranges E-3
Table E-3 Number and types of radiosE-7
Table G-1 Marine Corp capabilities and limitations G-16
Table G-2 Considerations for interagency operations G-21
Table H-1 Effects of sleep loss H-4
Table H-2 Signs of sleep deprivation and fatigueH-5
Table H-3 Reduction of the effects of continuous operationsH-6
Table I-1 Characteristics of chemical agents I-2
Table I-2 MOPP levels I-5
xvi FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 xvii
Preface
This manual defines the role operational requirements mission tasks battlefield functions and command and control relationships of Infantry battalions organic to the Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) Users of this manual must understand the elements of doctrinal literature and their relationship to each other The commonly used terms tactics techniques and procedures are both interrelated and mutually supportive However each term has its own usage level of detail and place in the hierarchy of doctrinal publications FMs provide doctrine tactics and some techniques while mission training plans (MTP) provide techniques and procedures Procedures can also be found in publications such as unit standing operating procedures (SOP) and Soldiersrsquo manuals as well as others Tactics techniques and procedures in that order become more prescriptive and require less judgment as these elements are applied
This manual is provided for use by Infantry battalion commanders and staffs company commanders and special platoon leaders The term Infantry unit as used in this context throughout this manual refers to all Infantry and Ranger units unless otherwise specified Air assault and airborne mission trained units are organized as Infantry units and are not differentiated in this manual This manual is also provided for use by instructors of US Army Infantry battalion operations It provides the doctrine for Infantry battalions to use in combat training and combat It establishes a common base of tactical knowledge from which specific solutions to battalion-level tactical problems can be developed It is designed to increase the effectiveness of battalion-level operations by providing doctrinal principles and selected battlefield-proven tactics techniques and procedures
While this manual is primarily written for US Army Infantry units it is also a source of information for other branches of the US Army and US military and for multinational forces while working in a joint environment It applies to the Active Army the Army National Guard (ARNG) the National Guard of the United States (ARNGUS) and the US Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated
The Summary of Change lists major changes from the previous edition by chapter and appendix Changes include lessons learned
The proponent for this publication is the US Army Training and Doctrine Command The preparing agency is the US Army Infantry School You may send comments and recommendations by any means US mail e-mail fax or telephone as long as you use or follow the format of DA Form 2028 Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms You may also phone for more information
E-mailPhone Fax US Mail
arthurduranteusarmymilCOM 706-545-7114 or DSN 835-7114 COM 706-545-7500 or DSN 835-7500 Commandant USAIS ATTN ATSH-ATD 6751 Constitution Loop Fort Benning GA 31905-5593
Unless this publication states otherwise masculine nouns and pronouns may refer to either men or women
Also to improve clarity some graphics show Soldiers uniforms without the camouflage pattern
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Summary of Changes
Chapter 1 UPDATED Infantry battalion organization ADDED Discussion of modularity issues ADDED Organization of IBCT ADDED Discussion of COE
Chapters 1 4 10 ADDED Discussion of weapons company
Chapters 1 10 ADDED Forward support company
Chapter 3 ADDED ISR ADDED Integration of UAS into collection and surveillance plan
Chapter 4 ADDED Discussion of sniper squad employment
Chapter 5 NA
Chapter 6 ADDED Stability operations
Chapter 7 UPDATED Civil support operations
Chapter 8 ADDED Tactical enabling operations
Chapter 9 ADDED Command post operations
Chapter 10 CHANGED BOS to WFFs CHANGED CSS to sustainment ADDED IBCT operations
Chapter 11 ADDED Urban operations
Appendix A ADDED Risk management and fratricide avoidance
Appendix B ADDED Movements and assembly areas
Appendix C ADDED Air assault operations
Appendix D UPDATED Operations with Heavy and Stryker
Appendix E UPDATED Aviation support to ground operations
Appendix F UPDATED Sniper operations ADDED Squad designated marksman
Appendix G ADDED SOF joint interagency and multinational operations
Appendix H ADDED Continuous operations
Appendix I ADDED Operations in CBRN
Appendix J ADDED Media considerations
Appendix K ADDED UAS and A2C2
Appendix L ADDED Lethalnonlethal capabilities
Appendix M ADDED Forward operating bases
Appendix N (TBP) TO BE PUBLISHED Counterinsurgency operations
xviii FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1 Introduction
The Infantry battalion is the first level of command that includes an assigned staff supporting a commander The battalion can deploy rapidly execute early-entry operations and execute missions throughout the full spectrum of operations It can conduct effective combat or other operations immediately upon arrival to assist in the prevention containment stabilization or resolution of a conflict
Section I MISSION CAPABILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
The Infantry battalion can execute military operations in varying terrain and under any visibility conditions throughout the full spectrum of operations Infantry battalions use and even seek out limited visibility conditions in tactical and training situations to continually enhance their capabilities Darkness fog heavy rain and falling snow offer the battalion opportunities to maximize its technical abilities and tactical skills Infantry battalions are also well suited for restrictive terrain such as mountains jungles and urban areas They are best when used in a combined arms formation especially when armor artillery engineers aviation and other joint assets are integrated into the operation Task organizing combined arms with access to joint capabilities tailors the organization to the mission This flexibility allows the commander to apply combat power at a designated time and place An Infantry battalion can be completely wheel mobile using trucks from the forward support company (FSC) and more trucks from the brigade support battalion (BSB) However the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT) can only provide this mobility to one Infantry battalion at a time
MISSION 1-1 The primary mission of the Infantry battalion is to close with the enemy by means of fire and maneuver Its purpose is to destroy or capture him to repel his assaults by fire close combat and counterattack or all of these Infantry battalions can deploy rapidly and can be sustained by an austere support structure They conduct operations against conventional and unconventional enemy forces in all types of terrain and climate conditions The battalions composition and training uniquely equip it to conduct its mission In addition to its primary war-fighting mission the Infantry battalion might be tasked to perform other types of operations including stability operations and civil support operations semi-independently or as an integral part of a larger force The Infantry battalion can routinely be task organized as part of an IBCT Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT) Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT) or possibly to a supporting brigade
CAPABILITIES 1-2 The inherent capability of the Infantry battalion is linked to that of the BCT to which it is assigned or task organized The BCT is the primary fighting headquarters of the US Army tactical fight The Infantry battalions relatively small light organization allows it to move rapidly and strategically As a result the Infantry battalion functioning as part of the IBCT often arrives in a theater of operations before the HBCTs and SBCTs BCTs have assigned robust intelligence collection fires management and command and control systems These systems allow the Infantry battalion to maneuver to points of advantage before making physical contact with the enemy In doing so the battalion is less likely to conduct movement to contact tactical offensive operations it is more likely to conduct maneuver to a
13 December 2006 FM 3-2120 1-1
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006
Chapter 1
known point and to execute deliberate tactical offensive operations It can accomplish this by using its assigned Army Battle Command System (ABCS) tomdash
bull Quickly access the BCT and higher intelligence databases bull Maintain a clear picture of friendly force locations bull Communicate over distance via satellite and digital means bull Quickly communicate orders without the need for face-to-face coordination
1-3 All Infantry battalions share the same table of organization and equipment (TOE) and can conduct air assault operations However some Infantry battalions receive regular intense and specialized training in air assault and airborne operations
LIMITATIONS 1-4 Once the Infantry battalion is deployed to an area of operations lack of rapid mobility is a limitation While insertion means vary all Infantry battalions are comprised mostly of foot-mobile Soldiers and thus require organic or supporting unit vehicles for enhanced ground movement of troops or supplies In addition to limited mobility the Infantry battalion lacks the firepower and protection of an SBCT Infantry battalion or HBCT combined arms battalion While moving Infantry battalions are especially vulnerable to enemy indirect fires and chemical biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) attacks Also the Infantry battalion can only conduct independent operations for short periods Sustainment must be carefully planned It must focus on quantities of supplies immediately available to the unit forecasted requirements and a distribution plan that is synchronized with the maneuver plan
Section II ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION
The Infantry battalion is designed for employment in full spectrum operations specifically offense defense stability operations and civil support operations The combination of rifle companies weapons company and specialty assets such as the scouts mortars and snipers allows the commander to internally task-organize capabilities as needed
COMMAND AND CONTROL STRUCTURE 1-5 In addition the command and control structure can readily accept external task-organized elements to include combat arms combat support and sustainment Close attention must be paid to the command and support relationship of task-organized elements to ensure adequate command control and logistical support
FUNCTION 1-6 The Infantry battalion normally functions as part of an IBCT Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2 (page 1-4) show and the following paragraphs discuss the organization of the two basic Infantry battalions Infantry and Ranger Appendix D discusses the integration of Infantry Heavy and Stryker forces and Appendix G discusses integration with SOF joint interagency and multinational operations Each battalion has three rifle companies a weapons company and a headquarters and headquarters company (HHC) The battalion also has a habitually associated FSC task-organized for sustainment from the BSB The HHC has two elements the headquarters section and the headquarters (HQ) company
1-2 FM 3-2120 13 December 2006